Correlation Analysis between Noise Sensitivity and Medical Experience/Psychological Burden in Adult Patients Attending Fever Clinics.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyse the correlation between the degree of noise sensitivity and medical experience/psychological burden in adult patients attending fever clinics.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on 200 adult patient records extracted from the electronic medical record system and patient experience survey database of the Xiaoshan Hospital's fever clinic between January 2023 and December 2024. The dataset encompassed general information and completed assessments using the Schutte Noise Sensitivity Questionnaire (NoiSeQ), the Patient Experience-Based Evaluation Scale for Medical Service Quality (PEES-50) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Statistical analyses included Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression and Bootstrap mediation effect analysis to examine the collected data.

RESULTS

Noise sensitivity assessment in the 200 fever clinic patients revealed scores of 66-144 points, with a mean value of 107.68 ± 16.78 points. Initial univariate analysis demonstrated statistically significant variations in total NoiSeQ scores according to waiting duration and the period of consultation (all P < 0.05). Subsequent multiple linear regression modelling confirmed that extended waiting times and nighttime visits remained significantly associated with elevated noise sensitivity (all P < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed consistent inverse relationships between NoiSeQ subscale and total scores and all PEES-50 dimensions (r < 0, P < 0.05). Conversely, direct positive associations were observed with depression, anxiety, stress components and overall DASS-21 score (r > 0, P < 0.05). Further examination identified psychological burden as a serving as a partial mediator between noise sensitivity and medical experience, explaining 52.03% of the total variance (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that noise sensitivity in fever clinic patients is associated with waiting time and time of visit, suggesting that acoustic environment modifications and psychological support measures represent potential strategies for enhancing the quality of medical services.