NURSES across Southampton are trying to reduce the amount of noise in their wards to help patients enjoy a better night’s sleep.

Last year, a national NHS Inpatient Survey found that 37 per cent of patients at the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust were disturbed by noises during the night made by other patients.

The study also found 22 per cent of the noise that stopped patients getting a full night’s sleep was caused by the hospital’s own staff.

Now the nursing teams at Southampton General and the Princess Anne hospitals, plus hospice Countess Mountbatten House have created a booklet for patients to let them know what steps are being taken to reduce noise and what patients themselves can do to help.

Nurses throughout the trust have signed up to a “noise at night” pledge.

It sets out standards of clinical practice and identifies simple measures to limit overnight disturbances.

These include staff keeping their voices down when they are talking to patients or colleagues.

They will also attempt to cut down on the amount of times beds have to be moved through better forward planning.

And hospital patients will be made aware that eye masks and earplugs are available to help them sleep better.

In addition, staff are being urged to dim overhead lights and use pen torches where possible.

Patients will also be encouraged to turn off their TVs or use headphones so as not to disturb others.

The patient information guide includes top tips on ensuring a peaceful night and how to respect other patients who are trying to sleep.

A range of relaxation techniques to help people unwind are also described in the booklet.

Juliet Cox, head of patient experience at UHS, said: “Reducing noise at night to ensure patients can relax and have a good sleep is a key indicator of quality care.

“It is often the case that what are thought of as more minor issues can really affect a patient’s experience of their time in hospital and a lack of sleep can be very distressing.

“We hope that by taking these simple steps to alert both staff and patients to the problems and solutions, we will be able to help patients rest well when they need it most.”