Hospital Noise Slows Healing

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - In times of illness, a hospital can provide an environment and services that can be life-saving. But in those cases where a person has an illness that can be effectively managed at home, it's better to be there.

That's because even in the cleanest environment, it's still possible to spread germs from patient to patient. And as studies have shown, not everyone involved in healthcare takes the proper precautions.

But there is another concern many don't think of -- noise. Believe it or not, our hospitals are louder than ever. Noise levels have grown an average of 15 decibels from 1960s levels. Those noise levels are disturbing because they're higher than they've ever been in the evening.

According to a report, this means slower healing for patients.

Reported By Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio Medical Editor