Development and Evaluation of a Noise-Attenuating Cradle: Analysing Its Efficacy in Noise Reduction

Abstract

Background: Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in children affects auditory, speech, language, and cognitive development, which can be mitigated by early detection and intervention. Universal newborn hearing screening (UNHS) programs help in the early detection of congenital hearing loss. Otoacoustic emission (OAE) and automated auditory brainstem response (AABR) tests are the objective tests recommended for UNHS. Since newborn hearing screening is carried out in a hospital setting, high ambient noise levels can minimize OAE accuracy, increasing false positives and referral rates. Aim: The study aimed to design and evaluate the effectiveness of a specialized noise-attenuating cradle in reducing ambient noise for broad band noise (BBN), hospital noise (HN), and Pure tone signals for different densities of attenuating material. Method: A portable cradle with a metal frame and adequate depth was purchased, and it was customized to reduce sound levels inside by using removable linings of EPE foam material sheets. Broad band noise (BBN), hospital noise (HN)and puretone signals were presented. The attenuation levels were measured for with and without placing different densities of soundproof material. Results: The results demonstrate that the noise-attenuating cradle significantly reduces background noise with high-density materials, across different stimuli. Conclusion: This noise attenuating cradle offers a cost-effective and practical solution to improve the efficacy of newborn hearing screening programs in noisy hospital environments, ultimately supporting better early diagnosis and intervention for hearing loss in infants.