What is the recommended humidity level for a hospital nursery?

The recommended humidity level for a hospital nursery is 30% to 60%. Maintaining this humidity range is crucial for the health and well-being of neonates, especially in environments like neonatal intensive care units where infants may be more vulnerable.

Adequate humidity levels help prevent dehydration in infants, as they can easily lose moisture through their skin and respiratory tract. If humidity is too low, it can lead to increased insensible water loss, which may complicate the management of a neonate's fluid and electrolyte balance. On the other hand, excessively high humidity can also pose risks, such as facilitating bacterial growth, which could lead to infections.

This recommended range strikes a balance, ensuring that neonates are protected from the hazards of both excessive dryness and excessive moisture. In summary, the 30% to 60% humidity level is deemed optimal to support the respiratory function and overall health of infants in a nursery setting.