Using white noise to improve sleep for hospitalized patients

Sleepless at Scripps: The Use of White Noise to Increase Sleep Duration in Hospitalized Patients, a Prospective Study

Not applicable Interventional Scripps Health · NCT05475262

This study tests if using white noise can help older patients in the hospital sleep better by reducing the disturbances from hospital noise.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorScripps Health Academic / other
Locations1 site (La Jolla, California)
Trial IDNCT05475262 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of white noise on sleep quality for hospitalized patients aged 65 and older. It employs a randomized cross-over design where participants will experience both active white noise (57-60 dB) and inactive white noise (45-50 dB) on alternate nights during their hospital stay. The primary outcomes include objective measurements of sleep duration and fragmentation, assessed using actigraphy devices. The goal is to determine if white noise can effectively reduce sleep disturbances caused by hospital noise.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are inpatient adults aged 65 years and older who are admitted to the internal medicine service for at least three nights.

Not a fit: Patients who are not hospitalized or those who do not meet the age and admission criteria may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance sleep quality for hospitalized patients, aiding in their recovery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that sound management strategies, including white noise, can improve sleep quality in hospital settings, suggesting a potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Over 18 years old
* Admitted to inpatient internal medicine service for at least 3 nights

Exclusion Criteria:

\-

Where this trial is running

La Jolla, California

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 White NoiseSleepSleep FragmentationSleep Duration
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.