hearing screen
Audiological testing performed on newborns to detect congenital hearing loss before discharge from the hospital.
Full Definition
Newborn hearing screening is a systematic audiological evaluation performed on all newborns to identify congenital hearing loss early in life when intervention is most effective. The screening typically uses otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing or automated auditory brainstem response (AABR) testing to assess hearing function. Universal newborn hearing screening aims to detect hearing loss by one month of age, confirm the diagnosis by three months, and begin appropriate intervention by six months. Early detection and intervention significantly improve language and cognitive development outcomes for children with hearing impairment.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from diagnostic hearing testing, which is more comprehensive.
In Context
- "The infant did not pass the initial hearing screen and was scheduled for diagnostic audiological evaluation." — Discharge summary
- "Universal hearing screen programs have dramatically reduced the age at which congenital hearing loss is identified and treated." — Public health outcomes report