HUSH Initiative, A Noise Reduction Project

Purpose:
The purpose of this quality improvement project is to determine whether implementation of noise reduction strategies will decrease sound levels in the PACU and result in improved patient and nurse satisfaction. Noise negatively affects staff performance due to interruption and distraction

Significance:
A quiet non-stimulating atmosphere is the preferred setting for patients in the PACU. Instead, patients often wake up to alarms, loud conversations, noisy equipment, and ringing phones.

Strategy and Implementation:
A pre-implementation survey as conducted on staff and patients on their perception of noise in the environment. An environmental measurement of sound levels in the environment was also performed for accuracy and confirmation. The noise reduction strategies that were implemented are as follows: -Signage-signs were placed in the unit to increase staff awarenes that there are patients in the room that needed their rest. -Noise Measurement device- use of Yacker Tracker-a device similar to a traffic light that alerts staff to the noise in the environment -Noise canceling devices- Use of music therapy and guided imagery to block noise or disensitized patients to the noise -Staff Education- Education of staff in being mindful of their actions and behavior in the unit A post implementation survey was conducted to determine outcomes of implementation strategies.

Evaluation:
Patients overwhelmingly reported that a quiet environment is important to them, while the majority of nurses (67%) stated that noise levels affected their delivery of care. The majority of patients surveyed (65%) stated they would have used a noise canceling device had it been offered to them.

Implications for Practice:
Education and visual cues are effective in reducing noise levels in the PACU. Decreased noise levels will improve patients'recovery experience and improve satisfaction. Reduced noise levels provides a less stressful work environment and limits sraff distraction.