Conclusion
Noise in the OR is a baseline condition of fact. This fact
notwithstanding, the ramifications are multifocal and
threaten the health and safety of both patients and staff.
The successful administration of patient care in a multidisciplinary
team environment is predicated on effective,
accurate, and timely dissemination of information. In a
complex, multispecialty healthcare environment with
division of roles, responsibilities, and skill sets, this
element of effective patient care is compounded by situational
factors and patient care considerations, making
each operative event a unique experience. The unpredictability of these encounters demands a constant stream of
data and transference of information to take place. As a
condition of the OR environment, there are barriers to
this component of care. This is illuminated by the literature
that substantiates the need for noise containment in
the operative setting.
All members of the multidisciplinary team, patient
care requirements, personal preferences, and environmental
comfort, combined with the ability to carry out
each unique professional role must be considered. The
ability to hear monitors, respond to alarms, communicate
effectively, and coexist in this environment mandates consideration
of all team members as equal stakeholders in
patient care and staff health and safety. Surgical and anesthetic
implications mandate that staff members maintain
a state of heightened vigilance to deliver proactive care.What role, if any, should music have in the OR after
a patient is under general anesthesia? A review of the
literature demonstrates it contributes to the overall stress
of the environment, interferes with communication, inhibits
the ability to accomplish tasks safely, and poses a
threat to patient and staff health and safety. As an ethical
matter, the appropriateness of creating a different patient
care environment because the patient is anesthetized
must be considered. There is no place in the healthcare
setting where a patient is more vulnerable and dependent
than when anesthetized and undergoing surgery. If music
is played in the OR, it must be done so judiciously and
with the consent and safety of all stakeholders. Future
research may establish safety decibel parameters and link
critical care events in the operative setting that mandate
heightened vigilance and intraoperative quiet. It is
hopeful that this information will guide the appropriate
use of intraoperative music.