Newborn Hearing Screenings

Hearing plays a pivotal role in the development of speech, language, communication skills, and learning in children. A delay in the identification and treatment of hearing loss can lead to significant developmental setbacks. Therefore, newborn hearing screenings are critical to detect any potential hearing impairment as early as possible. Audiologists play a crucial role in newborn hearing screenings. They are healthcare professionals trained to identify, measure, and rehabilitate hearing loss and balance disorders in people of all ages, including newborns. If a newborn does not pass the initial hearing screening, they should be referred for a full diagnostic audiological evaluation.

What is Newborn Hearing Screening?

Newborn hearing screening is a procedure performed on infants shortly after birth to detect any potential hearing loss. It is a safe, quick, and painless process that helps to identify any significant hearing impairment at the earliest possible stage.

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Prevalence of Hearing Loss in Newborns

Research indicates that approximately one to three babies per 1,000 are born with some degree of hearing loss, making it one of the most common congenital anomalies. The early identification and management of hearing loss are critical to prevent or mitigate the impact on the child's communication and cognitive development.

Why is Newborn Hearing Screening Necessary?

Newborn hearing screenings are vital for the following reasons:

1. Early Detection: Newborn hearing screenings aid in the early detection of hearing loss, which is essential for prompt intervention and treatment.
2. Developmental Benefits: Early detection and management of hearing loss can significantly enhance a child's speech, language, and cognitive development.
3. Social and Emotional Benefits: Effective hearing loss management can improve a child's social interaction and emotional well-being.

Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs)

This test measures the echo response coming from the inner ear (or cochlea) in response to sounds. If a baby has normal hearing, an echo is reflected back into the ear, which is then measured by a microphone. If the baby has significant hearing loss, no echo or a reduced echo is measured.

Interpreting Newborn Hearing Screening Results

The results of a newborn hearing screening are usually categorized as 'pass' or 'refer.' A 'pass' result indicates that the baby has normal or near-normal hearing, while a 'refer' result suggests that further testing is needed to confirm if the baby has a hearing loss.

What Happens If a Newborn Does Not Pass the Hearing Screening?

If a newborn does not pass the initial hearing screening, it is important not to panic. It may simply mean that there was too much background noise during the test or that the baby moved too much. In such cases, the test is usually repeated. If the baby does not pass the repeated test, they will be referred for a full diagnostic audiological evaluation to confirm the presence of hearing loss.

What Happens If a Newborn Passes the Hearing Screening?

Even if a newborn passes the hearing screening, it is essential to monitor their auditory development closely. Some babies may pass the screening at birth, yet they can develop hearing loss later due to illness, medications, or genetic reasons.

Newborn Hearing Screenings with Attentus Hearing

Attentus Hearing, a mobile Audiology clinic based out of Doylestown, PA, offers in-home newborn hearing screenings. Run by Audiologist Abby Holauchock, Attentus Hearing is dedicated to making hearing care accessible for anyone.