Assessment of nurses’ Knowledge and Practices Regarding Noise Reduction and Associated Factors in Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Public Hospitals, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2025
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Date
2025
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Addis Ababa Univertiy
Abstract
Noise, often described as unwanted or disruptive sound. It can adversely affect
both mental and physical health, making it essential to minimize noise whenever possible.
Excessive noise poses significant risks to the well-being of newborns. Many studies have
reported that nurses in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) have limited awareness and
insufficient knowledge regarding noise, practices to reduce it. In resource-limited countries, such
as Ethiopia, there is a particular lack of evidence on this subject.
Objective: The aim of the study was to assess nurses’ knowledge and practice regarding noise
reduction and associated factors in neonatal intensive care in public hospitals in Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia
Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted involving 117 nurses
working in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) from From January 20/2025 to February
20/2025. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. then added to kobotoolbox
to reduce manual errors. The data was transferred to SPSS then bivariable and multivariable
logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the effect of the independent variable on
the dependent variable. The adjusted odds ratio was used to interpret the strength of the
association, with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Statistical significance was established with a
P-value of <0.05 in the multivariate analysis. The results were presented through figures, tables,
and charts.
Results: The proportion of nurses having good knowledge and practice was 54.7% and 50.4%
respectively. Knowledge was significantly associated with education level (AOR=5.821,95% CI:
(1.039-32.5) p-value= 0.045), years of experience in the NICU (AOR= 0.537, 95%CI: (0.392-
0.736) p-value = 0.09), and the challenges encountered in implementing noise reduction
practices (AOR = 0.537, 95% CI: (0.392–0.736), p < 0.001).Practice was significantly associated
with the presence of a noise meter (AOR=2.795, 95% CI 1.018 - 7.672, p-value 0.046) And
NICU noise level (AOR= 0.08795, 95% CI 0.035 - 0.217, p-value 0.000).
Conclusion and r ecommendations: This study reveals a moderate level of understanding but
inconsistent practices. Therefore, hospital administrations and supporting organizations should
prioritize noise reduction training and ensure policies and guidelines are easily accessible.
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Keywords
Noise reduction, knowledge, noise reduction, neonate in NICU