Hospital Noise: How Librarians Can Help

Abstract

Historically, librarians have been known for maintaining quiet spaces. A twist on the evolution of this role puts librarians on the frontline in hospitals on committees with charges of improving patient satisfaction, which may include noise reduction. In this article, details about the existence of hospital noise and its impact on patient recovery and satisfaction will be shared. The relationship between satisfaction and reimbursement rates will be explained, in order to enhance understanding of a problem that is a priority for many hospitals in the nation. The authors will describe noise reduction methods employed by a teaching hospital in the Midwest, involving partnerships between the hospital librarian and groups both within and outside the hospital. Findings from a review of the evidence will be shared, along with the description of an initiative to reduce noise and improve satisfaction. Outcomes from the noise reduction program will be conveyed, along with challenges, lessons learned, and future plans.

KEYWORDS:

• change management
• evidence-based practice
• hospital libraries
• information dissemination
• librarians
• noise
• nurses
• patient satisfaction
• quality improvement