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Objective: To compare the protective efficacy and influencing factors of 1100 foam earplugs and 1270 preform earplugs, and to investigate the spectral characteristics of sound attenuation for these two types of earplugs. Methods: In January 2023, a cluster sampling method was employed to select 306 noise-exposed workers in the automotive manufacturing industry as study subjects. Basic worker information and hearing protection device usage were collected via questionnaire surveys. The 3M(TM) E-A-R fit(TM) dual-ear protection verification system was used to assess earplug suitability, with one-on-one training provided to workers who failed the baseline personal attenuation rating (PAR) test. The spectral characteristics of sound attenuation for both earplugs were analyzed using PAR(50) (with a protection rate of 50%). Mann-Whitney U test and Chi-square test/Fisher's exact probability method were used to compare the changes in PAR and pass rate of the two types of earplugs. Results: The baseline PAR values M (Q(1), Q(3)) for workers wearing 1100 foam earplugs and 1270 preform earplugs were 19 (14, 23) dB and 0.5 (0, 12) dB, respectively, and the baseline PAR pass rates were 84.8% (178/210) and 37.5% (36/96), respectively. The differences were statistically significant (P<0.001). Age, years of service, noise exposure intensity, and correct wearing training had statistically significant effects on the baseline PAR pass rate of 1100 foam earplugs (P<0.05), but had no statistically significant effects on the baseline PAR pass rate of 1270 preform earplugs (P>0.05). After the intervention, all workers passed the suitability test. There were differences in PAR(50) values at different frequency bands between the two types of earplugs. The measured values of 1100 foam earplugs at 125-250 Hz were lower than the nominal values, indicating poor protective effect; the measured values at 250-8000 Hz gradually approached the nominal values, indicating a better protective effect. The measured values of 1270 preform earplugs at 125-250 Hz were close to the nominal values, indicating a better protective effect; however, the measured values at 250-2000 Hz fluctuated greatly, and the measured value at 4000 Hz differed significantly from the nominal value, indicating a poorer protective effect. Conclusion: The overall noise reduction effect of 1100 foam earplugs is better than that of 1270 preform earplugs. Training on wearing methods is crucial for improving the wearing effect, 1100 foam earplugs require better wearing skills. 1100 foam earplugs have better protective effects in the mid-to-high frequency bands, while 1270 preform earplugs have better protective effects in the low frequency band. 目的： 比较1100泡棉型耳塞和1270预成型耳塞的防护效果及其影响因素，了解这两种耳塞声衰减的频谱特征。 方法： 于2023年1月，采用整群抽样的方法，抽取306名汽车制造业噪声作业工人作为研究对象。采用问卷调查收集工人基本信息及护听器的使用情况；使用3M(TM) E-A-R fit(TM)双耳防护验证系统对工人进行适合性检验，对个体声衰减值（PAR）未通过基线测试者进行一对一培训；PAR(50)（保护率为50%）分析两种耳塞衰减的频谱特征。采用Mann-Whitney U检验和χ(2)检验/Fisher确切概率法比较两种耳塞的PAR及通过率变化。 结果： 佩戴1100泡棉型耳塞和1270预成型耳塞的工人基线PAR值M（Q(1)，Q(3)）分别为19（14，23）和0.5（0，12）dB，基线PAR通过率分别为84.8%（178/210）和37.5%（36/96），差异均有统计学意义（P<0.001）；年龄、工龄、接触噪声强度以及正确佩戴培训对1100泡棉型耳塞基线PAR通过率的影响均有统计学意义（P<0.05），但对1270预成型耳塞基线PAR通过率的影响均无统计学意义（P>0.05），干预后所有工人均通过适合性检验。两种耳塞PAR(50)在不同频段下有差异，1100泡棉型耳塞在125~250 Hz的实测值低于标称值，防护效果较差；在250~8 000 Hz的实测值逐渐接近标称值，防护效果较好。1270预成型耳塞在125~250 Hz的实测值与标称值接近，防护效果较好；但在250~2 000 Hz的实测值波动较大，4 000 Hz时的实测值与标称值差异明显，防护效果较差。 结论： 1100泡棉型耳塞的总体降噪效果优于1270预成型耳塞，佩戴方法培训对提升佩戴效果至关重要，1100泡棉型耳塞更需要佩戴技巧；1100泡棉型耳塞在中高频段防护效果较好，1270预成型耳塞在低频段防护效果较好。.

Eye-mask and earplugs as sleep aid on glucose metabolism in sleep-deprived pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed2026-06-26作者：Nurulhuda AS, Mohammad Som N, Hong J

Gestational diabetes is associated with short sleep duration. Both conditions are common in pregnancy, especially in later pregnancy. Eye mask and earplugs when used at home in sleep-deprived pregnancy has been shown to extend nocturnal sleep. Data is sparse on the effect of sleep aids on glucose metabolism through extending sleep. We sought to evaluate use of eye-mask and earplugs on fasting and 2-hour plasma glucose levels at routine oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and on actigraph-derived night sleep duration in women with sleep-deprived pregnancy. A randomized trial was conducted in a university hospital in Malaysia from July 2021 to August 2022. Sleep-deprived (≤ 7 h night sleep duration) women, on being scheduled for routine OGTT for gestational diabetes screening were enrolled. Participants were randomized to the use of eye-mask and earplugs as sleep aid or no intervention in the week prior to OGTT appointment. All participants were asked to wear the actigraph watch during night sleep in the week prior to OGTT. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) data was also obtained at enrollment and at OGTT. The primary outcome was fasting and 2-hour glucose levels at OGTT and actigraph-derived night sleep duration. Secondary outcomes were actigraph-derived wakening after sleep onset, sleep efficiency, and PSQI-derived sleep quality and self-reported night sleep duration. The t test, Mann-Whitney U test, Chi square test, and Fisher exact test were used as appropriate for the data. 240 women were randomized; 120 to each intervention. Data on OGTT results were available from 116 to 117 participants and on actigraph-derived sleep data from 100 to 103 participants for eye-mask and earplugs vs. no intervention arms respectively. The primary outcome of fasting glucose level was mean ± standard deviation (mmol/l ) 4.4 ± 0.5 vs. 4.3 ± 0.4, mean difference (95% CI) 0.03 (-0.86 to 1.46) p = 0.611, 2-hour level was 6.3 ± 1.4 vs. 6.4 ± 1.3, mean difference (95% CI) -0.11 (-0.45 to 0.23) p = 0.536, and total night sleep duration (minutes) 347 ± 50 vs. 349 ± 47, mean difference (95% CI) -2.6 (-16.0 to 10.9) p = 0.707for eye-mask and earplugs vs. no intervention arms respectively. Secondary outcomes were also not significantly different. One-week use of eye-mask and earplugs as a sleep aid in women with sleep-deprived pregnancy does not decrease glucose levels at oral glucose tolerance test or extend actigraph-derived sleep duration. This trial was approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee of University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) on July 1, 2021 (reference number MREC ID NO: 202157 - 10120). This study was registered in ISRCTN registry on July 14, 2021, with trial identification number: ISRCTN 17,526,076, http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN17526076.

BMC pregnancy and childbirth

Comparing the Efficacy of Earplugs and Eye Masks on Pain and Sleep Quality in Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit Patients: A Three-Arm Randomised Controlled Trial.

PubMed2026-05-01作者：Özkan E, Yaman Aktaş Y, Surmeli Ş

Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common and leading causes of death worldwide. Surgical methods such as coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) provide successful results in this process. Patients who are faced with these disturbing life-threatening experiences try to cope with many problems until the discharge process. The most common of these problems in the postoperative period is pain and insomnia. In the literature, there have been studies to determine the effect of eye mask and earplug on sleep and pain level; however, there are no studies examining the superiority of earplugs or eye masks over each other. To determine the superiority of earplugs and eye masks to each other and their efficacy in pain and sleep quality. The study was a three-arm randomised controlled trial. After a baseline assessment, participants were randomly assigned to three groups. The random assignment was performed by using a computer program. Afterwards, participants were categorised into three groups. Group 3 patients in this group did not receive any treatment to improve pain and sleep quality during the study period. Routine postoperative care was applied in the clinic (n = 30). Group 2 was given the earplug (n = 30), whereas Group 1 was given the eye mask (n = 30). Statistically significant differences were found between the three groups in terms of sleep depth, sleep onset latency, number of awakenings, sleep efficiency, sleep quality, total Richard-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RCSQ) score and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores (p = 0.000) in total 90 participants participated, 30 in each group. The group that used an eye mask (Group 1) and the group that used earplugs (Group 2) had higher mean values than the control group (Group 3) in terms of sleep depth, sleep onset latency, sleep efficiency, sleep quality and total RCSQ score. The mean total RCSQ scores were 61.4 ± 3.7 in Group 1, 62.8 ± 5.0 in Group 2 and 46.5 ± 4.6 in Group 3. Accordingly, the mean difference was calculated as 14.9 points (95% CI: 12.8-17.0; p = 0.000) between Group 1 and Group 3 and 16.3 points (95% CI: 13.9-18.7; p = 0.000) between Group 2 and Group 3. Furthermore, VAS scores measured in the morning showed lower mean values in Group 1 (VAS: 4.4 ± 0.7) and Group 2 (VAS: 4.2 ± 0.8) compared to the control group (VAS: 6.3 ± 1.0) (p = 0.000). No statistically significant difference was found between the eye mask and earplug groups in terms of RCSQ subscales, total RCSQ score and VAS scores (p > 0.05). Promoting sleep in intensive care unit (ICU) patients is crucial for recovery. Simple, non-pharmacological interventions like eye masks and earplugs improve sleep quality and comfort, especially after cardiac surgery. These cost-effective strategies reduce sleep disturbances and enhance patient well-being, highlighting the importance of prioritising restorative sleep in critical care. Improving sleep quality in ICU patients is essential for postoperative recovery. This study highlights that simple, cost-effective interventions like eye masks and earplugs can enhance sleep and comfort in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Integrating these non-pharmacological strategies into routine nursing care can help reduce sleep disturbances, manage pain more effectively and promote overall patient well-being in critical care settings. NCT07100002.

Nursing in critical care

The efficacy of pink noise and earplugs for mitigating sleep disruption induced by different environmental noise sources.

PubMed2026-08-01作者：Basner M, Smith MG, Cordoza M

To investigate the efficacy of pink noise and earplugs in mitigating sleep fragmentation induced by intermittent environmental noise. Twenty-five healthy adults (mean ± SD age 28.5 ± 5.9 years, 7 male) participated in a polysomnographic laboratory study with intermittent exposure to environmental noise (93 events; maximum sound pressure level 45 to 65 dBA), pink noise (40 or 50 dBA), foam earplugs, and their combination. Pink noise mitigated aircraft noise induced arousals and awakenings in a dose-response manner but was outperformed by earplugs. Awakening and arousal probability were highest for a crying baby and a fire alarm sound, followed by helicopter, low sonic boom, drone, rail, jet, and road noise. Earplugs emerged as a more efficacious option for mitigating environmental noise effects on sleep disruption compared to pink noise. Noise legislation relying on jet noise studies likely underestimate the effects of helicopter noise and other emerging aircraft sounds on sleep. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05774977.

Sleep health

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Efficacy of pink noise and earplugs for mitigating the effects of intermittent environmental noise exposure on sleep.

PubMed2026-05-12作者：Basner M, Smith MG, Cordoza M

Nighttime environmental noise (EN) exposure disturbs sleep and increases morbidity and mortality. Affordable and effective countermeasures are needed, but rigorous research is scarce. This study investigates the efficacy of pink noise (PN) and earplugs for mitigating the effects of intermittent EN on sleep. Twenty-five healthy adults (mean ± SD age 28.5 ± 5.9 years, seven male) participated in a seven-night polysomnographic laboratory study with different noise conditions including exposure to EN (93 events; maximum sound pressure level 45 to 65 dBA), PN (40 or 50 dBA), earplugs, and their combination. In the morning, participants completed cognitive tests, cardiovascular measurements, hearing tests, and surveys. Compared to a noise-free control night, EN reduced N3 deep sleep (p < .0001) while PN reduced REM sleep (p < .001). Adding PN to EN worsened sleep structure, despite minor dose-dependent improvements of EN-induced sleep fragmentation and N3 sleep increases. Earplugs mitigated nearly all EN effects on sleep but started failing at the highest EN level (65 dBA). Morning cognition, cardiovascular measures, and hearing were not affected by nighttime noise, but subjective assessments of sleep, alertness and mood were significantly worse after EN and PN exposure. In contrast to PN, earplugs proved efficacious in mitigating the effects of EN on sleep. Considering the importance of REM sleep for memory, emotion regulation, and neurodevelopment, the negative effects of PN on REM sleep caution against the widespread and indiscriminate use of broadband noise (BN). Additional research on optimal BN color/level and long-term use is needed, especially in vulnerable populations. Registered at clinicaltrials.gov under "Broadband Sound and Sleep"; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05774977; registration # NCT05774977.

Sleep

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Use of eye masks and earplugs in intensive care units: systematic review.

PubMed2026-07-13作者：Ciborro-Montes J, Fernández-Garrido J

Delirium is a common neuropsychiatric disorder but underdiagnosed in intensive care units due to the different presentations it can manifest. Nurses have an important role to play in preventing its onset and promoting sleep in their patients. To describe the efficacy of the use of eye masks and earplugs in adult patients admitted to intensive care units on sleep quality and the development of delirium. Systematic literature review of randomized clinical trials. During June and July 2024, the CINHAL, ScienceDirect, Medline, LILACS, ProQuest, Web of Science, and BioMed Central databases were consulted, applying filters based on time period, population, type of study, topic, and scientific journal. Studies were selected that analyzed the use of eye masks and earplugs as nursing care and whose methodological quality achieved a medium-high score using the CASPe tool. We found (N = 3742) studies. After applying filtering and selection criteria, a total of eight (n = 8) clinical trials were collected. With a total of 611 participants, it was observed that the use of eye masks and earplugs improved subjective sleep quality, while the data obtained on the incidence of delirium reflected an inconclusive result for its prevention due to the heterogeneity of the results. Studies indicate that the use of sleep masks and earplugs in intensive care unit patients can improve sleep quality and reduce delirium. However, comfort and tolerance vary among patients, and it is crucial to consider duration of use and removals only for short periods of time. Although some studies show significant benefits, others find no relevant differences, suggesting the need for further research to optimize its use. The review has not received any funding.

Enfermeria intensiva

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Improving low-frequency attenuation of passive earplugs using Helmholtz resonators.

PubMed2026-04-01作者：Carillo K, Sgard F, Dazel O

Earplugs are widely used in occupational and recreational settings to prevent noise-induced hearing loss. However, their effectiveness in real-world conditions is often limited by inconsistent use, imperfect fit, and intrinsic acoustic limitations, particularly in attenuating low-frequency sounds. Improving low-frequency attenuation is critical not only for increasing overall hearing protection but also for achieving a more balanced attenuation profile, which can enhance perceived sound quality and speech intelligibility. In this study, we investigate how the reflection coefficient at the earplug's medial surface facing the ear canal cavity influences low-frequency noise reduction (NR) in passive earplugs and how passive design can optimize it. From an analytical NR model, we derive the exact condition for maximum attenuation: a reflected wave in anti-phase with the incident wave, producing destructive interference within the occluded ear canal. Using meta-earplugs incorporating three Helmholtz resonators, we demonstrate, on both an acoustic test fixture and human participants, that inducing near anti-phase or quadrature-phase reflections increases low-frequency attenuation by up to 15 dB below 1 kHz. In addition, this passive strategy remains effective despite moderate acoustic leakage. Originally designed to reduce the occlusion effect, these meta-earplugs also show strong potential for enhancing low-frequency attenuation, thereby enabling more efficient and robust hearing protection.

The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America

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Short-term effects of eye masks and earplugs on delirium and pain in awake, spontaneously breathing pediatric intensive care patients: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed2026-06-01作者：Hamza Ek, Aras Doğan Ş, Oto A

To evaluate the effectiveness of nighttime use of eye masks and earplugs in preventing delirium and reducing pain levels among awake, spontaneously breathing pediatric intensive care patients aged 6-12 years. This single-center, parallel-group, superiority randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary university hospital in western Turkey between August 2024 and June 2025. Seventy-four children aged 6 to 12 years were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the intervention group or the control group. The intervention group received standard care plus eye masks and earplugs at night, while the control group received standard care only. The primary outcome was the incidence of delirium assessed over three consecutive days using the Cornell Assessment of Pediatric Delirium, while the secondary outcome was pain severity assessed over the same period using a faces-based numeric pain rating approach. gov (NCT06867523). The intervention group had a significantly lower incidence of delirium on Days 2 and 3 compared to the control group (Day 3: 2.7% vs 37.8%; OR = 21.91, 95% CI [2.69-178.07], p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups regarding pain scores at any assessment point (p > 0.05). Nighttime use of eye masks and earplugs significantly reduced early-onset delirium in awake, spontaneously breathing intensive care patients aged 6-12 years; however, no statistically significant effect on pain levels was observed. Simple, low-cost environmental modifications such as eye masks and earplugs may help reduce early-onset delirium in stable, non-sedated PICU patients aged 6-12 years and can be feasibly integrated into routine nursing care. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06867523).

Journal of pediatric nursing

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Combined Use of Personalized Music Intervention and Earplugs (MUSE) to Prevent Delirium in Mechanically Ventilated Patients: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed2026-07-01作者：Chen TJ, Lin YY, Wang AY

Personalized music interventions and earplugs have shown promise in preventing intensive care unit (ICU) delirium, but evidence on their combined effects is limited. To evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effects of personalized music intervention combined with earplugs (MUSE) and personalized music intervention (PMI) on delirium prevention and clinical outcomes in mechanically ventilated patients. In this randomized controlled trial, 63 participants were assigned to MUSE, PMI, or usual care (UC). Delirium was assessed during each nursing shift using the Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist, alongside measures of pain, sedation, sleep, and clinical outcomes. The delirium incidence was 50% in the UC group, 25% in the PMI group, and 33% in the MUSE group. The median number of delirium or coma-free days was 7 (interquartile range [IQR] = 4-7) in the PMI group, 5 (IQR = 4-7) in the MUSE group, and 5 (IQR = 3-7) in the UC group. No significant between-group differences in either primary or secondary outcomes were identified. The exploratory post hoc subgroup analysis indicates that age may influence the effects of treatment on delirium. In this pilot study, neither MUSE nor PMI had significant effects in reducing delirium incidence among patients undergoing mechanical ventilation when compared with UC. However, PMI appeared more effective at preventing delirium relative to MUSE and UC, and the potential additional benefit of earplugs remains uncertain in this study. This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov. Trial registration number is NCT04065256.

Clinical nursing research

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A Nurse-Led Approach to Preventing Delirium in the ICU: A Randomised Controlled Trial of NICE Guideline-Based Sensory Modulation.

PubMed2026-05-01作者：Topçu S, Şen Yılmaz M, Kıymaç Sarı M

Delirium is a preventable yet pervasive complication in intensive care units (ICUs) settings, disproportionately increasing patient morbidity and healthcare costs. While environmental disruptions (e.g., light/noise) are modifiable risk factors, nurse-delivered, non-pharmacological strategies may be under-implemented in routine practice despite guideline recommendations. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a simple, holistic nursing intervention-eye masks and earplugs-to mitigate delirium incidence in ICU patients. A randomised controlled trial was conducted in the adult general intensive care unit of a public hospital in Istanbul, Türkiye, between May and September 2024. Patients were assigned to either an intervention group (nightly use of eye masks and earplugs together with a delirium prevention guide) or a control group (delirium prevention guide only). Delirium was assessed using the Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale (RASS) and the Nursing Delirium Screening Scale (Nu-DESC). In total, 190 patients were randomised. Ten participants allocated to the intervention group did not receive the intervention because 9 were unwilling to continue and 1 became intubated. Consequently, 180 patients were analysed (90 per group). The intervention group showed a 62% lower incidence of delirium than the control group (7.8% vs. 20%, p = 0.001). In addition, delirium developed later in the intervention group (2.57 ± 0.79 vs. 1.89 ± 0.85 days, p = 0.001), and Nu-DESC scores differed significantly between the groups (p = 0.001). Nightly use of eye masks and earplugs was associated with lower delirium incidence and later onset in ICU patients when implemented alongside a NICE-aligned delirium prevention guide. As a scalable, non-pharmacological approach, this intervention offers a feasible, low-cost option that empowers nurses to lead delirium prevention through holistic, patient-centred care. Further studies may help clarify generalisability across different ICU settings. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT06403410.

Nursing in critical care

Emotional and Cognitive Effects of Simulated Temporary Hearing Deficit with Healthy Adults.

PubMed2026-01-19作者：Moss Levy L, Weisler K

Background/Objectives: Accumulation of cerumen (earwax) in the auditory canal is a common condition, particularly in children and older adults, and often causes temporary hearing loss. While chronic hearing loss is known to affect mood and cognition, little is known about the psychological impact of short-term auditory deprivation. This pilot study aimed to examine the emotional and cognitive effects of simulated temporary hearing loss. Methods: Thirty healthy adults (16 females, aged 18-60) participated. Temporary hearing loss was simulated by placing earplugs in both ears for two hours. Participants completed four tests, assessing anxiety, mood, and attention at three time points: before wearing earplugs, during the blocked condition, and after earplug removal. Results: Participants showed a significant increase in state anxiety and a decrease in mood during the earplug condition. Interestingly, visual attention performance improved while hearing was obstructed and remained elevated even after earplug removal. Conclusions: Short-term simulated hearing loss produces measurable emotional and cognitive changes, including increased anxiety but enhanced visual attention. Clinicians should consider these effects when assessing patients with temporary hearing obstruction, such as those with cerumen impaction. The results carry implications for the broader population wearing earplugs on a temporary basis including musicians, construction employees, and, in general, people working in noisy environments.

Audiology research

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[The protective effects and influencing factors of hearing protection devices for noise-exposed workers in different industries].

PubMed2025-12-20作者：Su SB, Zhong X, Huang QF

Objective: To explore the current status of the protective effects of hearing protection devices worn by noise-exposed workers in different industries and its possible influencing factors. Methods: From October 2020 to December 2023, by using the method of convenient sampling, 3634 noise-exposed workers from 7 industries including the petrochemical industry, automotive manufacturing industry, plastic manufacturing industry, and metal manufacturing industry, were selected as the survey subjects. A questionnaire designed by the research group was adopted to investigate the usage of hearing protection devices (foam earplugs, preformed earplugs, and earmuffs) among workers. The personal attenuation rating (PAR) of workers wearing hearing protection devices was measured by using the 3M(TM) E-A-R fit(TM) binaural verification system. Three process tests were carried out, including baseline PAR, intervention PAR (training demonstration of correct wearing of hearing protection devices, replacement of appropriate hearing protection devices and other interventions), and follow-up PAR. The differences of PAR in each group were analyzed by non-parametric tests, and the generalized linear regression model was used to explore the factors that might affect the baseline PAR. Results: The M (Q(1), Q(3)) of the baseline PAR obtained by 3634 workers wearing hearing protection devices was 12 (2, 19) dB. There was a statistically significant difference in baseline PAR among the three types of hearing protection devices (H=336.39, P<0.001), and the baseline PAR of workers wearing foam earplugs and earmuffs were higher than that of preformed earplugs (P<0.05). There was a statistically significant difference in baseline PAR among workers in different industries (Z=359.73, P<0.001). Workers with college degree or above education level, wearing hearing protection devices for 10 to <30 years, foam earplugs and earmuffs, noise intensity≥85 dB (A), knowing the correct wearing method and evaluating the comfort of hearing protection devices had a higher baseline PAR (P<0.05). There were 1559 workers (42.9%) failed the baseline PAR test. After the intervention, the PAR of the workers increased from 1 (0, 6) dB at baseline to 18 (14, 22) dB after the intervention (P<0.001). The follow-up test found that the follow-up PAR of 328 workers was higher than the baseline PAR but lower than the intervention PAR (P<0.001) . Conclusion: The actual protective effect of the hearing protection devices worn by some workers exposed to noise is not good, mainly related to factors such as insufficient knowledge of wearing hearing protection devices among workers, exposure to high-intensity noise, and low educational level. Enterprises should enhance the training of workers on the correct wearing of hearing protection devices by means of hearing protection device fit test methods, select suitable hearing protection devices scientifically, and conduct regular follow-ups when necessary. 目的： 探讨不同行业噪声作业工人佩戴护听器的防护效果现状及其可能影响因素。 方法： 于2020年10月至2023年12月，采用方便抽样的方法，抽取石化行业、汽车制造业、塑胶制造业、金属制造业等7个行业的3 634名噪声作业工人作为调查对象；采用课题组自行设计的调查问卷调查工人护听器（泡棉型耳塞、预成型耳塞、耳罩）的使用情况；利用3M(TM) E-A-R fit(TM)双耳验证系统测量工人佩戴护听器的个体声衰减值（personal attenuation rating，PAR），主要开展包括基线PAR、干预PAR（正确佩戴护听器培训演示、更换合适的护听器等干预措施）、随访PAR三个过程测试。采用非参数检验分析各组PAR差异，广义线性回归模型探索可能影响基线PAR的因素。 结果： 3 634名工人佩戴护听器所获得基线PAR的M（Q(1)，Q(3)）为12（2，19）dB；三类护听器的基线PAR差异有统计学意义（H=336.39，P<0.001），且佩戴泡棉型耳塞、耳罩的工人基线PAR均高于预成型耳塞（P<0.05）；不同行业的工人基线PAR差异有统计学意义（Z=359.73，P<0.001）。大专及以上文化水平、护听器佩戴年限10~<30年、泡棉型耳塞和耳罩、噪声强度≥85 dB（A）、知道正确佩戴方法与评价护听器舒适的工人基线PAR较高（P<0.05）。1 559人（42.9%）未通过基线PAR测试；干预后，工人的PAR从基线时的1（0，6）dB提高至干预后的18（14，22）dB（P<0.001）；随访测试发现，328名工人的随访PAR高于基线PAR，低于干预后PAR（P<0.001）。 结论： 部分噪声作业工人佩戴的护听器实际防护效果不佳，主要与工人护听器佩戴知识不足、高强度噪声接触、文化水平较低等因素有关。企业应借助护听器适合性检验方法，加强工人护听器正确佩戴培训，科学选择适合的护听器，必要时开展定期随访。.

Zhonghua lao dong wei sheng zhi ye bing za zhi = Zhonghua laodong weisheng zhiyebing zazhi = Chinese journal of industrial hygiene and occupational diseases

Use of hearing protection devices in the clinical dental setting: A pilot study.

PubMed2026-06-11作者：Leung J, Fok E, Jayadi K

Noise in the clinical dental setting has been shown to exceed safe levels, and the risk to dental professionals, including occupational noise-induced hearing loss, is well-established. This pilot study investigated dentists' perceptions and experiences of the use of custom-made earplugs as a means of attending to the risk in the clinical dental setting. Dentists were recruited using convenience and purposive sampling and provided with custom-made attenuated earplugs, which were worn for a period of 12 weeks of usual clinical dental practice. Questionnaires were completed periodically. Data were analyzed statistically and thematically. There was a total of eight participants. Participants recognized the risk of hearing loss and supported the promotion and inclusion of hearing protection as a part of personal protective equipment. Participants noted an improved focus due to a reduction in noise perception. Disadvantages included discomfort and communication challenges. This pilot study assessed the process for, and feasibility of, conducting a larger-scale study and will contribute to the reliability and validity of such, which is recommended.

Journal of occupational and environmental hygiene

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Dual hearing protection effectively preserves outer hair cell function during 7 T MRI.

PubMed2026-05-01作者：Wennberg L, Waechter S, Brännström KJ

Exposure to high acoustic noise levels generated during 7 Tesla (T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may affect auditory function. To better understand these effects, this study examines how such noise exposure influences outer hair cell function in healthy adults, with a focus on the efficiency of a dual hearing protection method. In this within-subjects longitudinal study, outer hair cell function was assessed in 39 participants (aged 18-41 years) using distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs). Participants completed two 7 T MRI sessions on the same day while wearing dual hearing protection (foam earplugs in combination with sound-absorbing impression paste). DPOAEs were measured before the first MRI session and immediately after both MRI sessions, with follow-up assessments on a separate day to detect any enduring alterations in auditory function. Among the 39 participants, DPOAEs demonstrated no significant variations in outer hair cell function across the assessed time points, suggesting that cochlear function remained stable. This study suggests that, with adequate dual hearing protection, repeated exposure to high acoustic noise during 7 T MRI does not adversely affect outer hair cell function in healthy adults. Our findings highlight the importance of rigorous hearing protection in MRI, particularly in ultra-high-field settings. Dual hearing protection, combining foam earplugs with sound-absorbing impression paste, is shown to effectively prevent measurable cochlear deterioration during repeated 7 T MRI sessions. These results support adopting multiple protective barriers as a practical standard and contribute to auditory safety in diagnostic imaging.

Radiography (London, England : 1995)

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Enhancing and sustaining noise attenuation from hearing protection devices: A mixed methods review of fit testing and instruction approaches.

PubMed2026-05-01作者：Gong W, Morata TC, Samelli AG

Extensive training has been shown to improve the effectiveness of hearing protection devices (HPDs) in reducing noise exposure for workers. This study aimed to (1) assess the evidence for short- and long-term effectiveness of HPD fit testing paired with extensive instructions and (2) identify the type and frequency of refresher instruction associated with maintaining its effectiveness. A literature search was completed on February 5, 2025. The inclusion criteria focused on uncontrolled before-and-after (UBA) studies that reported personal attenuation ratings (PARs) provided by HPDs in the field. A total of 23 UBA studies involving 5,575 workers were included, meta-analyses were performed when multiple comparable studies were located. For earplugs, retesting immediately after extensive training increased the mean PAR by 12.88 dB (13 studies) compared with the pre-intervention PARs without instructions. The improvement decreased to 8.84 dB (2 studies) within 6 months and further reduced to 4.46 dB (2 studies) at 12 months. For earmuffs, only one study reported increase in PARs of 5, 2, and 3 dB for immediate, short-term, and long-term assessment, respectively. Introducing extensive refresher training within a 6-month interval increased the mean PAR from earplugs by 1.53 dB (2 studies) compared with the post-intervention PAR retested immediately after extensive training, with a further increase of 3.45 dB (1 study) following annual extensive instruction. Simple refresher instructions within a 6-month interval maintained the PAR values (1 study). However, without any refresher training, the PAR decreased by 2.64 dB (2 studies) within 6 months and 3.09 dB (2 studies) over 6 months or longer. Refresher training may increase the probability that workers receive efficient protection from their HPDs. However, more high-quality studies could help inform the optimal type and frequency of refresher training.

Journal of occupational and environmental hygiene

Effects of noise exposure on intelligibility of bone-conducted speech during earplugging.

PubMed2025-07-01作者：Uchida K, Otsuka S, Nakagawa S

Bone conduction (BC) is a method of perceiving sound via living tissue. Some components of BC sound reach the middle or inner ear directly, so it can be heard even when wearing earplugs. Therefore, BC is used in speech communication devices in noisy environments that require wearing earplugs. However, the perception of BC sound under high-intensity noise is generally complicated by the temporal and frequency characteristics of the noises, the noise reduction rate of the earplugs, and the "occlusion effect," a phenomenon where the loudness of low-frequency bands increases due to wearing earplugs. Although former studies have investigated the effects of noises, the findings are varied and inconclusive. Moreover, no study has reported the systematic analysis of the effect of noise. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of noise characteristics on the intelligibility of BC speech with earplugging from psychological (intelligibility test) and physical (ear canal sound pressure (ECSP) and head vibration measurements) aspects. White, pink, and Japanese babble noise were used and set to 60, 70, and 80 dB A (A-weighting), respectively. One hundred Japanese monosyllables (FW03, NTT-AT) set to the clearest sound level for each participant were used as stimuli and presented using a BC vibrator. The highest intelligibility was recorded with babble noise and the lowest with white noise. The result indicates that the more high-frequency components the noise contains, the more it impedes the hearing of consonants attenuated by the propagation characteristics of BC, thus reducing intelligibility. Physical measurements confirmed the validity of these results.Clinical Relevance- Our results indicate that the intelligibility of BC speech varies significantly depending on the characteristics of the ambient noise, and the intelligibility may decrease to as low as 50% under poor conditions. The results provide useful information for the development of BC devices, including hearing aids.

Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Annual International Conference

Sleep and Cognitive Health Interventions to Prevent Cognitive Decline in Older Adult Survivors of Critical Illness: Randomized Clinical Trial Protocol.

PubMed2026-08-01作者：Elias MN, Thompson HJ, Kross EK

Older adults frequently experience acute and long-term cognitive impairment following critical illness hospitalization in an intensive care unit (ICU). Delirium affects up to 80% of ICU patients and is linked to cognitive dysfunction and increased risk of cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). Sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances are present in about 75%-80% of ICU patients and may exacerbate delirium and undermine cognitive interventions. Nonpharmacological interventions such as earplugs, eye masks, and computerized cognitive training show promise in reducing delirium and improving sleep but have not been rigorously tested-separately or combined-in older adult ICU survivors. Moreover, prior studies have not leveraged chronotherapeutic timing to align cognitive training with individual circadian rhythms. We propose a multimodal combination of sleep promotion intervention [SLEEP] and computerized cognitive training program timed daily according to individual chronotype [COG], to improve cognitive function in hospitalized older adult ICU survivors. The primary aim is to test the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary separate and combined effects of SLEEP and COG [SLEEP, COG, SLEEP+COG] versus an active control condition [AC] in improving cognitive function after the intervention period. The secondary aims are to explore (1) circadian rhythm parameters of continuous body temperature to determine the optimal window for chronotherapeutic timing of cognitive interventions; (2) if the effects of each intervention on cognitive function are mediated by sleep and activity; (3) if biopsychosocial and clinical factors moderate the effects of each intervention on cognitive function; and (4) the effects of each intervention on cognitive function at 1, 6, and 12 months. After discharge from ICU, English- or Spanish-speaking older adult ICU survivors ( n =100) are randomly assigned to 7 days of (1) SLEEP, (2) COG, (3) SLEEP+COG, or (4) AC. Cognitive function, delirium severity, sleep and circadian rhythms, patient-reported symptoms, and data regarding biopsychosocial and clinical factors are collected. Results are pending study completion. We aim to target sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances, mitigate ICU delirium, and reduce cognitive decline associated with ADRD. If hypotheses are supported, this combination of low-cost, nonpharmacological interventions could be integrated into standard care to accelerate cognitive recovery during hospitalization.

Nursing research

Electroacoustic validation of a neck-based field attenuation estimation system.

PubMed2026-04-01作者：Voelker JR, Kulinski D, Brungart DS

Many commercially available hearing protector fit testing (HPFT) systems are able to measure personal attenuation rating (PAR) values for earplugs, but only a few are capable of measuring PAR with over-the-ear protectors and even fewer are able to estimate PAR values with double hearing protection. One approach that could potentially be used with any type of hearing protection is to modify the real-ear attenuation at threshold method to use an occluded threshold that is measured with circumaural headphones worn around the neck rather than over the ears. However, this method would only be valid if the neck-to-ear transfer function of the headphones is stable across a variety of headphone fittings. This study evaluated the validity of a neck-based HPFT approach by (1) measuring the transfer function from headphones worn around the neck to the ear across a variety of headphone positions and head and ear geometries; and (2) using an acoustic test fixture to compare PAR values measured with a neck-based sound source to those obtained with more conventional HPFT approaches. The results indicate that the neck-based HPFT system has a relatively consistent neck-to-ear transfer function and produced PAR values comparable to those obtained with other HPFT systems.

The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America

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搜索结果：Earplugs

[Comparison of noise protection effects of two common types of earplugs].

Eye-mask and earplugs as sleep aid on glucose metabolism in sleep-deprived pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial.

Comparing the Efficacy of Earplugs and Eye Masks on Pain and Sleep Quality in Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit Patients: A Three-Arm Randomised Controlled Trial.

The efficacy of pink noise and earplugs for mitigating sleep disruption induced by different environmental noise sources.

Efficacy of pink noise and earplugs for mitigating the effects of intermittent environmental noise exposure on sleep.

Use of eye masks and earplugs in intensive care units: systematic review.

Improving low-frequency attenuation of passive earplugs using Helmholtz resonators.

Short-term effects of eye masks and earplugs on delirium and pain in awake, spontaneously breathing pediatric intensive care patients: A randomized controlled trial.

Combined Use of Personalized Music Intervention and Earplugs (MUSE) to Prevent Delirium in Mechanically Ventilated Patients: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

Pink noise/earplugs and nighttime environmental noise on sleep.

Otitis externa due to allergic contact dermatitis to earphones and earplugs: A case control study.

A Nurse-Led Approach to Preventing Delirium in the ICU: A Randomised Controlled Trial of NICE Guideline-Based Sensory Modulation.

Emotional and Cognitive Effects of Simulated Temporary Hearing Deficit with Healthy Adults.

[The protective effects and influencing factors of hearing protection devices for noise-exposed workers in different industries].

Use of hearing protection devices in the clinical dental setting: A pilot study.

Dual hearing protection effectively preserves outer hair cell function during 7 T MRI.

Enhancing and sustaining noise attenuation from hearing protection devices: A mixed methods review of fit testing and instruction approaches.

Effects of noise exposure on intelligibility of bone-conducted speech during earplugging.

Sleep and Cognitive Health Interventions to Prevent Cognitive Decline in Older Adult Survivors of Critical Illness: Randomized Clinical Trial Protocol.

Electroacoustic validation of a neck-based field attenuation estimation system.