Exploring the auditory environment in the hospital setting : using music to reduce noise stress in the emergency department

Consumers search for emergency care when they are sick, in pain, shocked and distressed. Typically, they find this in the emergency department (ED). Both their health problems and the ED environment may contribute to their experience of stress and anxiety. It is known that high noise levels in the ED promote stress, aggravation and sleep loss, with potential effects on communication and behaviour. This presentation outlines and explores several Australian studies looking at the auditory environment of the ED, which firstly measured noise levels and then used music listening interventions with a view to reducing anxiety and stress and promoting calm. A cross-case study approach was employed to review the empirical data from these mixed method studies in two major metropolitan hospitals. Measurements confirmed that noise levels breached current standards, leading to noise stress and related problems for the consumer. Using music interventions in each of these settings, findings suggested that music can reduce anxiety and negative affect for moderately anxious patients in triage categories 2 and 3, assisting them in feeling better during their stay in the ED. Patients commented: "Thought it was absolutely fabulous, blocked out conversations"; "Very good idea for passing the time, relaxes you"; "Gives you more time out of here, more peaceful". Cross-case analysis of the studies generated suggestions about planning a music listening intervention in this context, including careful consideration of infection control issues and choice of music to suit patient demographics. The studies cited in this presentation demonstrate that a music intervention can assist by reducing stress for patients experiencing this noisy auditory environment within the hospital context.