In the hospital environment, especially in Intensive Care Units (ICU), noise is not only a nuisance, but a critical factor affecting the health and well-being of patients. The severity of the conditions of patients admitted to these areas requires more rigorous measures to control this element, whose impact is often underestimated. Noise can significantly aggravate the condition of critically ill patients, underscoring the urgency of addressing this problem effectively to ensure optimal care in delicate situations.
Noise in hospital environments can have adverse physical and psychological consequences on the health of individuals. From sleep disturbance and demotivation to decreased performance and communication difficulties, its effects are varied and detrimental. In addition, noise can trigger physiological stress responses, such as increased blood pressure and heart rate, as well as changes in the levels of hormones such as noradrenaline, adrenaline and cortisol, which negatively affect the overall health of patients.
The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the adverse effects of noise on hearing and sleep, stating that it should not exceed 30 decibels (dB) to ensure an adequate night’s rest and avoid interference with physiological functions and mental health. In the case of hospitals, especially in critical areas such as ICUs, it is recommended to maintain the decibel range between 30 and 40 dB to protect the health of patients.
To address this challenge, the implementation of tools that measure, monitor, and manage environmental noise in ICUs is crucial. In addition, strategies based on circadian rhythm, such as regulating lighting and establishing clear daily routines through clocks and calendars, can improve the ICU experience for patients. Adjustments in family visits, especially during prolonged stays or critical times, can also provide additional emotional support that contributes to patients’ well-being.
Related projects
An outstanding example of innovation in this regard is the Smart ICU project at Vall de Hebron Hospital, which has transformed intensive care through advanced technologies and intelligent data management. This initiative, a pioneer in Spain, allows continuous, real-time monitoring of patients, improving the quality of care and facilitating medical research.
Another innovative project that seeks to humanize the ICU is the “A Wish Granted” initiative of Hospital Quirónsalud Córdoba, which gives patients the opportunity to receive a personalized gift during their stay in the unit, providing an additional stimulus in their recovery process and connection with the outside world.
Air Quality and Temperature: Key Elements in the Hospital Environment
Air management in these hospital areas is highly specialized compared to other hospital sectors. In addition to complying with general energy recovery standards to avoid waste, an exceptionally high level of filtration is required within the cubicles, reaching Class I. This implies the use of up to three consecutive filtration levels, the last one being a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. The flow of renewed air must reach 30 cubic meters per hour per square meter, ensuring that the air in the room is renewed about 10 times every hour.
As for temperature, it is maintained within a narrow range, generally between 22º and 24º Celsius, with a controlled relative humidity between 44% and 55%. To achieve this level of control, precise climate control is required to match both the outside conditions and the energy needs of the system. This control is achieved by means of climate control units located on the roof of the building.
These large, yet relatively lightweight units mark a significant step forward in improving care in intensive care units. Equipped with internal humidification systems that maintain air humidity at optimal and constant levels, they represent an innovation that directly impacts the physical, emotional and psychological well-being of patients during difficult moments in their lives.
On the other hand, Bellvitge Hospital has implemented a significant transformation in its ICU, using multisensory technology to improve both the physical and emotional well-being of critical patients. By incorporating elements such as lights, projections, sounds and vibrations, this medical center has redesigned the 64 cubicles of its ICU. The main objective is to promote both functional and cognitive rehabilitation of critical patients, offering them immersive experiences tailored to their individual needs, such as recreating natural environments, calm night environments or showing personal photographs to generate a more comfortable and welcoming environment.
Humanization in the ICU
A recent project in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) recognizes the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological needs of critically ill patients. Although this medical environment is designed to handle complex situations, it is crucial to remember that each patient is an individual with unique emotions.
“The state of vulnerability in which they find themselves can lead to significant emotional disturbances. Therefore, it is essential that the ICU team of professionals not only focus on the physical aspects of care, but also consider the emotional and psychological well-being of patients.“
As Dr. Melcior Martínez, head of the ICU at Quirónsalud Badalona Hospital, emphasizes, this comprehensive care is essential to provide quality care and promote the satisfactory recovery of patients.
These initiatives, along with other measures to humanize the ICU experience, are key to promoting a faster and more successful recovery. By emphasizing the individual needs of each patient and providing a calmer and more welcoming hospital environment.
That is why at Tedisel Medical we are committed to offering the best solutions for ICUs, such as our Suspended systems that have been successfully implemented in numerous units, seeking the optimization and ergonomics that are so necessary in these crucial spaces for health.
Universitary Hospital of Pilsen