Newborn Hearing Screening Steps

Step 1

Newborn hearing screening is conducted using a special equipment called Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE). A sensitive microphone is placed in baby’s ear canal while baby is sleeping or very quiet. The equipment records the ear’s response to sounds. This procedure is quick,easy, and does not hurt the baby. No further testing is needed if the baby passes the OAE hearing screen.

Step 2

If baby does not pass the OAE Screening, An Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) Screening Equipment is used. Sensors are placed on the baby’s forehead, back of the neck, and shoulder. Earcups are used to deliver sounds to the baby’s ears. The AABR device records the brain’s response to sound. No further testing is needed if the baby passes the AABR hearing screen.

Step 3

If a baby does not pass the AABR, the baby will be given an appointment to come back for a repeat screening test at the outpatient clinic two