Noise is a health hazard and a source of stress, and
it impairs concentration and communication. Since
1960, hospital noise levels have risen around the
world. Nowhere in the healthcare setting is noise
more prevalent than in the operating room (OR). The
genetic makeup of humans does not evolve at the rate
of technology. Noise exposure, sensory overload, and
the capacity to adapt without physical and psychological
consequences are absent from the human condition.
The World Health Organization has recognized
environmental noise as harmful pollution that causes adverse effects on health. Although noise in the OR
is unavoidable, music is a choice. The purpose of this
literature review is to provide further insight into the
ramifications of the presence of music in the OR, evaluate
its appropriateness in relation to care and safety
for the patient and staff, and provide information for
future research.
Keywords: Music in the operating room, noise-induced
hearing loss, noise in the operating room, safety hazards
in the operating room.