Perspectives on Listening to Music in the Operating Room Among Healthcare Professionals: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: To investigate the perspectives of healthcare professionals on listening to music in the operating room, considering their job satisfaction levels and the relationship between job satisfaction and music. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 200 surgeons, anesthesiologists, and operating room nurses from three tertiary centers in T & uuml;rkiye. Participants completed a survey consisting of demographic questions, general assessments of the appropriateness of listening to music in the operating room, and the Job Satisfaction Scale. Results: The mean age of the participants was 39 years (standard deviation: +/- 11), with 59% female and 41% male participants. The majority of participants expressed positive opinions about listening to music in the operating room. The median score on the Job Satisfaction Scale for all volunteers was 20 (range: 5-25). A positive correlation was found between job satisfaction scores and favorable views on music (p<0.01, r=0.124). Conversely, increased professional experience was negatively correlated with positive perceptions of music (p=0.02, r=0.165). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the majority of healthcare professionals hold positive views on listening to music in the operating room, with higher job satisfaction levels correlating with more favorable attitudes. Conversely, increased professional experience tends to be associated with less positive perceptions of music during surgeries. These findings underscore the importance of tailoring music use in the operating room to individual preferences, considering both job satisfaction levels and professional experience. For instance, offering a choice of music or maintaining flexibility regarding its presence could enhance team morale and satisfaction. Additionally, institutions may consider periodic assessments of team preferences to balance the potential benefits of music with individual comfort levels. Further longitudinal research is recommended to assess the long-term effects of music on surgical outcomes, team dynamics, and healthcare professionals' well-being, ultimately guiding evidence-based implementation strategies in the operating room.