NCIDQ IDFX Practice Exam

What decibel range is typically specified for quiet areas like bedrooms or hospitals?

1. 15-20 dB

2. 20-30 dB

3. 30-35 dB

4. 40-45 dB

The correct answer is: 20-30 dB

The specified decibel range of 20-30 dB is appropriate for quiet areas like bedrooms or hospitals because it reflects a sound level conducive to calm and restful environments. Within this range, sounds are typically hushed enough to promote relaxation and privacy, which is particularly important in settings such as hospitals where patients need peaceful conditions for recovery. In a bedroom, maintaining a sound level within this range helps ensure that sleep is restful and uninterrupted by noise, which can interfere with healthy sleep patterns. Similarly, in hospitals, these noise levels contribute to a serene atmosphere, reducing stress and allowing patients to rest adequately, which is essential for recovery. Decibel levels below 20 dB, while quieter, may not be practical for everyday living or functioning in a hospital environment, as they may be too quiet for normal activities. Levels above 30 dB begin to feel less serene, which can lead to disturbances in these settings.