Effect of White Noise on Stress and Hemodynamic Parameters Among Cardiac Patients in Pakistan: A Quasi-experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Admission to a cardiac ward is often associated with increased stress and disturbances in hemodynamic status. White noise, as a nonpharmacological intervention, may promote relaxation and positively influence physiological parameters. Objectives: This study investigated the effectiveness of white noise in reducing stress levels and improving hemodynamic parameters among cardiac patients in Pakistan. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted from January to March 2026 among patients admitted to the cardiac unit of a teaching hospital in Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 70 participants were recruited using convenience sampling and allocated to the intervention and control groups using a non-random method. White noise at an intensity of 50 - 60 dB was played for 30 minutes. Data collection tools included a hemodynamic indices checklist and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Data were analyzed using SPSS. Results: The mean age was 55.71 ± 13.61 years in the experimental group and 52.69 ± 14.16 years in the control group; male participants comprised 60.0% and 65.7% of the participants in the respective groups. No significant between-group differences were observed in baseline demographic characteristics. After the intervention period, participants in the experimental group exhibited lower stress scores (mean decrease from 7.42 to 3.65) and different patterns of change in diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate compared with those in the control group (P < 0.05). No significant between-group differences were observed in systolic blood pressure or oxygen saturation. Conclusions: White noise exposure was associated with significant reductions in stress scores, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate, whereas no significant changes were observed in systolic blood pressure or arterial oxygen saturation. These findings suggest that white noise may be a simple, nonpharmacological intervention for reducing stress and supporting hemodynamic stability in hospitalized patients with cardiac disease.