Introduction: Noise is a sound that we perceive as unwanted, disturbing, or annoying. Noise reduces hearing ability, thereby increasing the potential for communication errors. These can lead to safety deviations that endanger both the patient and staff. Purpose: We wanted to find out how noise affects the safety and quality of medical services in operating theatres and how to reduce noise in operating theatres. Methods: In this study we used a descriptive research method of work, with a review of selected professional and scientific Slovenian and English literature. We searched for literature through the digital library of the University of Ljubljana (DiKUL), namely PubMed, Medline and Scopus databases. We also used Google Scholar and the reference list search. The age of the searched literature did not exceed twenty years including the year 2001. We included literature where the article is fully accessible and related to the chosen topic. We also performed a manual review of the Proceedings of the Section of Operating Nurses from 2013 onwards. Results: Noise is present in every operating theatre and cannot be completely avoided. In addition to short-term effects such as irritability and agitation, prolonged exposure to noise can lead to impaired hearing function, job dissatisfaction, cardiovascular problems, anxiety, and depression. Noise reduces concentration and impairs communication, leading to safety deviations. We perceive noise subjectively, which we must take into account when working where noise is impossible to avoid. Noise can be reduced both through changes in human behavior and through technological interventions. It is important that we train staff to be more aware of the consequences of noise and therefore contribute to its reduction. Discussion and conclusion: The sound we perceive as noise has a negative impact. We preserve a healthy work environment by preventing noise. Further studies need to be conducted on this topic.
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