Newborn hearing screening is a routine and important part of early baby care. These tests are designed to identify potential hearing issues soon after birth. The process is quick, non-invasive, and provides valuable information about a baby’s auditory health.
Importance and Timing
Detecting hearing differences early is important for a baby’s overall development. Early identification allows for timely interventions, which supports a child’s language, speech, and cognitive growth. Without early detection, delays in these developmental areas can become more pronounced over time.
Most hearing screenings occur before a baby leaves the hospital. If a baby is not screened in the hospital, the test is performed within the first few weeks of life, often at an outpatient clinic. Universal newborn hearing screening programs aim to ensure that all infants receive this important initial check.
Types of Hearing Tests
The Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) test is a common method for newborn hearing screening. This test evaluates the function of the inner ear’s outer hair cells within the cochlea. These cells, when healthy, produce faint sounds in response to specific clicks played into the ear.
During an OAE test, a small earphone is placed into the baby’s ear canal. The earphone emits soft sounds, and a microphone in the device records any sounds produced by the inner ear. A “pass” result indicates that the outer hair cells are functioning, while a “refer” means that these sounds were not detected, requiring further evaluation.
The Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) test is another frequently used screening method. This test assesses how the auditory nerve and brainstem respond to sound. It measures the electrical activity generated along the auditory pathway from the ear to the brainstem.
For an AABR test, small sensors, called electrodes, are placed on the baby’s head. An earphone is placed in the baby’s ear, delivering soft clicking sounds. The electrodes then record the brain’s electrical responses to these sounds, indicating whether the auditory pathway is transmitting sound information. Both OAE and AABR tests are safe, quick, and are often performed while the baby is asleep or in a quiet state.
Understanding the Results and Next Steps
A “pass” result on a newborn hearing screening indicates that the baby has normal hearing at the time of the test. Parents should continue monitoring a child’s hearing development as they grow. Parents should observe for typical hearing milestones, such as responding to sounds and beginning to babble.
A “refer” result does not mean a baby has permanent hearing loss. Instead, it signifies that the initial screening requires further investigation. This outcome can occur for several reasons, including the presence of fluid in the ear canal, vernix, or background noise during the test.
When a baby receives a “refer” result, the next step involves a repeat screening. This second screening uses the same or a different type of test to evaluate the baby’s hearing. If the repeat screening also yields a “refer” result, a more comprehensive diagnostic evaluation by a pediatric audiologist is recommended.
Timely follow-up after a “refer” result is important to determine the nature of any hearing difference. A diagnostic evaluation may involve detailed tests or specialized assessments to provide a complete picture of hearing ability. This ensures necessary support or interventions begin early.