OBJECTIVE: Determine noise levels in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and identify the sources of these noises. METHODS: Quantitative, descriptive and exploratory study, carried out in São Paulo. Data was collected in April and May of 2005. A dosimeter was used to record a total of 96 hours of measurements. Nine hours of observation were also conducted to identify sources of noise. RESULTS: Leq noise levels ranged from of 61.3 to 66.6 dBA and were higher on the weekends. Peak values ranged from 90.8 to 123.4 dBC and the highest values were recorded at night. The sources of the noise were: beeping noises from ventilators and heart rate monitors, conversations between health professional and others. CONCLUSION: The deleterious effects of high levels of noise on newborns and health professionals show the need for interventions in routines and professionals and families' conduct.
Noise; Noise measurement; Intensive care; neonatal; Neonatal nursing; Infant; newborn
