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Listening to drum ‘n’ bass during surgery could put patients at risk, study finds

It impacts communications between theatre staff

Listening to drum ‘n’ bass during surgery could put patients at risk, a study has found.

Research released by the National Journal of Nurses revealed that music playing in an operating theatre puts patients at risk, hampering communications between surgeons and nurses.

In the study, cameras were placed in opering theatres in the UK for a 35-hour period, with music playing during 16 of the 20 surgeries. During surgeries with background music, the study found it was five times more likely that hospital staff would have to repeat themselves. The NJN also noted that drum 'n' bass and dance music were played the loudest.

Speaking about the study, lead author Sharon Weldon said: "Our study shows that playing music in the operating theatre can run counter to effective communication and highlights the need to consider both positive and negative effects of music on staff and patients."

In April last year,  a study published in the science journal 'Acta Tropica' found that Skrillex’s music can protect you from mosquitos.