How earplugs affect sleep during loud intensive care unit noise
Updated
Abstract
Exposure to simulated intensive care unit noise significantly decreased sleep quality in healthy subjects.
- Sleep architecture and sound measurements were similar during quiet nights.
- Sound levels were significantly lower on quiet nights compared to noise nights.
- Noise exposure increased the number of awakenings and the percentage of stage 2 sleep.
- Time asleep, sleep maintenance efficiency index, and percentage of rapid eye movement sleep decreased during noise exposure.
- Wearing earplugs during noise exposure significantly decreased rapid eye movement latency and increased the percentage of rapid eye movement sleep.
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