What should I expect when my child has their hearing tested?

By CHELSEA HOY, AU.D. Doctor of Audiology

Your child can expect a newborn hearing screening, typically completed before leaving the hospital or within the first month. Routine hearing screenings are then completed in school at the following grade levels: kindergarten, first, second, third, seventh, and eleventh grade.

A failed hearing screening is followed by a secondary hearing screening at the pediatrician or a visit with an audiologist.

In addition to a visual examination of the ear and ear canal, an audiologist may complete the following:

Tympanometry- this test evaluates the eardrum movement. It allows the audiologist to see if there may be anything behind the eardrum contributing to the failed hearing screening.

Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emission Testing (OAEs) - This test evaluates the hair cell motility in the hearing organ (cochlea). This test is automated, allowing the audiologist to effectively detect hearing loss without a response from the child.

Audiometric Evaluation

Depending on the age of the child, different methods of testing are used.

Behavioral Observations - Typically completed on children between birth and 6 months of age. This test watches for changes in behavior in response to certain sounds. Observed changes in their behavior can include changes in sucking a pacifier, quieting, or searching for the sound.

Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA)- Typically completed with children 6 months to 2 years of age. VRA requires the child to have neck and head move-

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Continued from Page 10 ment. This type of testing is typically completed with the use of speakers instead ofb headphones. The child is conditioned to look toward the sound source. When the correct response is given, the child is rewarded through visual stimulation, typically a toy or flashing light.

Play Audiometry- Typically completed with children 2 years to 5 years of age. This test relies on a child’s cooperation. The child will often wear headphones. When the stimuli is presented to the child, the child is asked to complete a task, typically with a toy, or highfives. This type of testing is turned into a game for young children to keep their attention while testing.

Pure Tone Audiometry- Typically completed on any child above the age of 5. For this test, the child wears headphones. A tone is then presented, and the child must respond by raising their hand.

Speech Audiometry- This subset of tests allow audiologists to test speech awareness, speech detection and speech discrimination abilities. These tests can be completed using speakers or headphones. The use of headphones allows testing of each ear individually.

If a hearing loss is identified, your child should be seen by an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Doctor to rule out any medical contraindications of the hearing loss. A medical clearance by the ENT is required prior to the fit and use of hearing aids for children. Hearing loss can affect a child’s ability to develop communication, language, and social skills. The earlier children with hearing loss are identified and start receiving services or using hearing aids, the more likely they are to reach their full potential.