Association between Operating Room Noise and Physiological and Psychological Status of Patients Undergoing Spinal Surgery

Abstract

AIM: The study aims to investigate the effects of operating room (OR) noise on physiological and psychological parameters in patients undergoing spinal surgery and evaluate the effectiveness of targeted nursing care. METHODS: In this retrospective clinical study, 200 patients scheduled for elective spinal surgery were enrolled and divided into standard nursing ( n  = 94) and noise control ( n  = 106) groups based on the nursing methods received. The standard nursing group received routine perioperative care, whereas the noise control group received additional noise control care. Physiological parameters [blood pressure, heart rate (HR), and salivary cortisol] were measured at five time points. Psychological status was assessed preoperatively and postoperatively using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Visual Analog Scale for Stress (VAS-S). Patient satisfaction was evaluated using a modified Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Surgical Care Survey (S-CAHPS). Continuous variables were compared using independent t -tests, and categorical variables were compared using chi-square tests. RESULTS: OR noise levels showed no statistical differences between groups ( P > 0.05). However, the noise control group experienced significantly less time with noise exceeding 70 dBA ( P < 0.001). During the main operative and closure phases, the noise control group demonstrated significantly lower systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and HR than the standard nursing group (all P < 0.05). The noise control group displayed significantly lower intraoperative and postoperative salivary cortisol levels ( P < 0.001). Postoperatively, this group showed greater reductions in STAI and VAS-S scores ( P < 0.001) and perceived stress levels ( P < 0.001), as well as significantly higher S-CAHPS scores ( P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Targeted nursing care aimed at mitigating OR noise is associated with improved physiological stability, reduced psychological stress, and higher patients satisfaction in individuals undergoing spinal surgery.