What is a Newborn Hearing Evaluation?

Some babies do not pass the first hearing screening in the hospital. A non-pass at the birth hospital does not always mean that a baby has hearing loss. This means that further evaluation is needed. Factors that can influence the newborn hearing screening can include:

• wax in the ear canal
• fluid behind the eardrum
• debris in the ear
• a blocked ear canal
• possible hearing loss

State law requires every infant be re-evaluated after discharge from the hospital if the infant does not pass the hospital screening in one or both ears. It is important to identify hearing loss early due to the impact on speech and language, education and social emotional development. Timely follow-up testing is important to make sure your child is hearing normally or if further services are needed.

An Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Evaluation is a reliable way to measure how well a baby can hear while they are sleeping. It is also useful for anyone who has difficulty completing the routine hearing test.

An ABR evaluation works best when the child is quiet and in a deep sleep. They can sleep in an adult’s arms or in a car seat—wherever they sleep best. The testing takes place in a quiet room. Small stickers will be placed on the child’s forehead and behind each ear.  Small earphones will be placed in the child’s ears. Once the child is asleep, hearing is measured, making sure they can hear the important sounds for understanding speech.

When the test is done, the audiologist will review the test results with you. They will also share any follow-up recommendations.

Preparing For Your Visit:

Testing is quicker and easier if your baby is sleeping comfortably. Our goal is to have your baby sleep during the testing. You know your baby best, but here are some tips to help prepare for the hearing test:

• Choose an appointment time that is close to your baby’s typical naptime.
• Bring a blanket, pacifier, extra diapers, change of clothes, bottles and formula (if used).
• Arrive with your baby hungry and tired, but not asleep yet. You will be able to feed the baby at the beginning of your appointment.
• If your baby is older and stays awake after eating, it is okay to feed your baby at home before you leave.
• Keep your baby awake for at least one hour before the appointment. If your child does fall asleep before the appointment, gently wake them.
• If you are driving from a long distance, bring another adult to help keep the baby awake.
• Do not bring siblings or other children to your baby’s appointment. The testing room needs to stay quiet.