Bethesda Memorial Hospital recently launched a new patient satisfaction initiative in July called “Afternoon Quiet Time,” observed daily between 3 and 5 p.m., which gives patients an opportunity to rest.
Kiswana Russell, hospital spokeswoman, said after a few months, Afternoon Quiet Time has received positive feedback from patients and employees.
Russell said during the quiet time, activities continue as usual, just with extra special attention to noise levels. Using lower voices, turning off televisions, and fixing squeaky wheels or rattling carts are some of the extra steps taken by employees. Many areas also dim the lights to help create an even more restful environment.
To help employees “see” the noise, a “Talk Light” travels to the nursing units to measure noise. Sensing the decibel level, the light changes like a traffic signal.
“Green” is quiet, “yellow” is an acceptable noise level and “red” means it is too loud.
Russell said studies have proven that recovery is inhibited when patients don’t get enough rest. Bethesda has seen a 15-point rise in patient satisfaction scores for noise when compared with the same period a year ago.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.