Assessing how light and noise affect delirium in ICU patients

Light and Noise: Objectively Assessing Environmental Risk Factors for Delirium in the ICU

Observational Medical University of Graz · NCT06294158

This study is testing how changes in light and noise levels in the ICU can help prevent delirium in critically ill patients.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment250 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMedical University of Graz Academic / other
Locations1 site (Graz, Styria)
Trial IDNCT06294158 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational pilot study aims to evaluate the impact of environmental factors, specifically light and noise, on the development of delirium in critically ill patients in the ICU. Conducted at the University Medical Centre Graz, the study will involve measuring brightness and sound levels in the ICU environment while monitoring adult patients who are not deeply sedated. The findings could provide valuable insights into how modifying these environmental factors may help prevent delirium, ultimately improving patient care and ICU design.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adult patients aged 18 and older who are admitted to the ICU and expected to stay for at least 48 hours without being deeply sedated.

Not a fit: Patients who are already experiencing delirium or have advanced directives limiting treatment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved prevention strategies for delirium in ICU patients, enhancing their overall recovery and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of assessing light and noise as risk factors for delirium is novel, there is growing interest in environmental modifications in ICU settings, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

* Adult patients (age ≥ 18 years)
* Admission to participating Intensive Care Unit
* Expected (further) stay in participating Intensive Care Unit ≥ 48 hours
* Not (currently) deeply sedated (RASS ≥ -3) Exclusion Criteria
* Patient already in delirium (CAM-ICU positive)
* Environmental modification due to treatment necessities (e.g., burns care)
* Advanced directives / Treatment limitation
* Current inclusion in other (interventional) trial
* Documented patient refusal in advance

Where this trial is running

Graz, Styria

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions DeliriumCritical IllnessLightNoise
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.