Three concerns have been identified relating to
the effects of the NICU sound environment on the
neonate: (a) High intensity sound may cause damage
to the cilia of the cochlea leading to hearing
loss; (b) repeated arousal of the infant to sounds in
the NICU may deplete infant's physiologic resources
and energy reserves, interfere with sleep,
and lead to fatigue and irritability; and (c) NICU
noise may interact with ototoxic drugs such as the
aminoglycosides and have an additive effect on
susceptibility to hearing loss.