Intelligibility of medically related sentences in quiet, speech-shaped noise, and hospital noise

Noise levels in healthcare settings often exceed recommendations from health organizations. Previous work on the impact of noise on speech perception has been studied in classrooms and workplaces, showing decreased performance on working memory tasks and reduced intelligibility. However, the effect of noise on speech perception in medical settings has not yet been explored, even though successful communication between healthcare providers and patients is vital to quality healthcare delivery. Furthermore, previous studies typically focused on noise produced by buildings, equipment, or humansi—while all of these sources must be considered for noise within healthcare settings. This begs the question: how might hospital noise impact patients' ability to understand medical information? In this study, we explored perception of speech in conditions of quiet, hospital noise, and speech-shaped noise through an intelligibility task with participants aged 65 and older to understand the impact of hospital noise on speech perception. Additionally, we explored the role of word frequency and familiarity on speech intelligibility in noise by utilizing both standard sentences and medically related sentences. Finally, we collected data on participants' hearing ability, cognitive acuity, and experience in hospital settings, to explore additional factors that may interact with speech perception in noise. [Work supported by James S. McDonnell Foundation.]