Hearing is fundamental to a child’s speech and language development. Detecting any hearing impairment shortly after birth allows for early intervention, which can significantly improve a child’s long-term outcomes. Newborn hearing tests are generally categorized into two types: screening and confirmatory tests.
Types of Hearing Tests for Infants
1. OAE (Otoacoustic Emission)
This is the primary screening test performed on newborns.
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Timing: It is recommended that every baby undergoes an OAE test before being discharged from the hospital.
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Potential for Initial Failure: If the test is conducted within the first 24 to 48 hours, it might show a “fail” result due to normal fluids present in the ear canal.
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Follow-up: If the initial test is not passed, it should be repeated within one month to confirm a “pass” result.
2. BERA (Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry)
This is the confirmatory test used to diagnose hearing loss definitively.
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Usage: BERA is conducted if a child repeatedly fails the OAE screening.
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Accuracy: It provides a more detailed assessment of how the hearing nerve and brain respond to sound.
Who Needs Immediate BERA Testing?
While all babies are screened, certain “high-risk” newborns must undergo mandatory BERA testing regardless of OAE results:
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Premature Babies: Infants born significantly before their due date.
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Family History: Families with a known history of childhood hearing impairment.
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Severe Jaundice: Newborns who required blood transfusions due to severe jaundice.
Ensuring your baby passes their hearing screening is a vital step in their healthcare journey. If you have concerns or fall into a high-risk category, consult your pediatrician about comprehensive testing early on.
