Sleep and Circadian Disruptors: Unhealthy Noise and Light Levels for
Hospitalized Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant Patients
Abstract
Noise and light levels during hospitalizations can disrupt sleep and
circadian health, resulting in worse health outcomes. This study
describes patterns of noise and light in an inpatient room of children
undergoing stem cell transplants. Objective meters tracked noise and
light levels every minute for 6 months. Median overnight sound was 55dB
(equivalent to conversational speech), which exceeded recommendations.
There were 3.4 loud noises (>80dB) per night on average.
Children spent 62% of the 24-hour cycle in non-optimal lighting, with
daytime light dimmer than recommended 98% of the time. These data
suggest improvements for hospital environment in pediatric cancer
patients.