Newborn Hearing Screening Tests

Hearing tests for newborn babies are performed in the first days after birth. These tests allow hearing loss, if present, to be diagnosed early, so that treatment can be given in time. At our hospital, newborn hearing screening tests are performed with state-of-the-art devices in line with international standards. This test has become a very important benchmark of health standards in all developed countries. It makes it possible to identify newborns with hearing problems at an early stage and carry out detailed examinations accordingly. Another benefit is identifying babies who may develop late-onset hearing loss and monitoring their hearing regularly. (This was strongly emphasized in the 2007 report of the Joint Committee on Infant Hearing.)

When is the newborn hearing screening test performed?

Early diagnosis of hearing loss in newborn babies is very important. It is crucial for babies' language development, speech skills and cognitive development. If not addressed in time, hearing loss can reduce a baby's quality of life. Hearing loss diagnosed early is a condition that can be overcome with prompt treatment. This allows the baby's language development and speech skills to progress along their normal course. Hearing screening tests are performed on babies after birth. These tests help protect babies from future problems. The results should be reviewed carefully and additional tests performed if necessary.

Types of Hearing Screening Tests

In newborn babies, the OAE (Otoacoustic Emission) and ABR (Auditory Brainstem Response) tests are widely used. These tests examine babies' hearing health, but each works in a different way. The OAE test examines the outer hair cells in the inner ear. These cells convert sound energy into electrical signals and then reflect the same sound energy back. This reflection shows that the baby's sense of hearing is healthy. The ABR test examines the auditory pathways of the brain. Sound stimuli are delivered to the ear and the brain's response is recorded. This test shows whether the auditory pathways are healthy.

Both tests are reliable and are used to assess babies' hearing health. Doctors determine the baby's condition based on the results of these tests and plan any necessary interventions.

OAE (Otoacoustic Emission) Test

The OAE test shows how the hearing cells in the baby's ear are working. It examines the normal functioning of the hearing cells and thus reveals whether there is hearing loss. The test is short and painless and is performed while the baby is asleep. The OAE test checks babies' hearing health. It shows whether the hearing cells are working normally. If there is hearing loss, further tests can be performed. During the test, a small probe is placed in the ears of the sleeping baby. This probe sends sound waves and records the sounds that come back. The test takes 5–10 minutes and does not disturb the baby. The OAE test checks babies' hearing health at an early stage, allowing us to treat hearing loss early. This leads to better outcomes for babies.

ABR (Auditory Brainstem Response) Test

The ABR test measures the responses of the baby's auditory nerve and brainstem. It is used to better understand how well the baby's hearing system is functioning. Compared with the OAE test, the ABR test gives more detailed results but takes longer. The ABR test examines the baby's hearing system in depth. Electrodes are placed on the baby's head and auditory stimuli are delivered. How the baby's brainstem and auditory nerves respond to these stimuli is recorded. The ABR test takes longer than the OAE test, but it gives more detailed results. If there is a problem in the OAE test, the baby's hearing system needs to be evaluated in more detail with the ABR test.

How is the hearing screening test performed?

Newborn hearing screening tests are usually performed in the hospital shortly after birth. These tests are carried out by nurses or audiologists, providing the first assessment of the baby's hearing health. During the test, the baby's sense of hearing is measured using simple and safe techniques, so the tests cause the baby no pain or discomfort. The test results are important because they are reviewed carefully by the baby's doctor. If hearing loss is detected, more comprehensive tests or treatment are recommended. Early diagnosis and intervention are very important for reducing the effects of hearing loss.

If the newborn hearing screening tests give a positive result (pass), the baby's hearing is normal. In this case, it is important to check the baby's hearing health regularly.

Likelihood of hearing loss in babies

If the hearing screening tests give a negative result (refer), the likelihood that the baby has hearing loss increases. This indicates that more detailed tests are needed. Early intervention plays an important role in the baby's language and cognitive development. Factors that cause hearing loss can arise before or after birth. Various factors such as infections and trauma can cause hearing loss.

If negative results are obtained, do not panic; detailed tests should be carried out. These tests determine the degree and type of hearing loss. The findings help in choosing the right treatment and education methods.

Newborn hearing screening program

When hearing loss in babies is not identified and treated early, speech and language development are harmed. Hearing loss is the most common congenital defect, with an incidence of 1–3 per 1,000 live births. When hearing impairment is not detected early, children's language and social skills may be adversely affected. Performing hearing screening tests in newborns so that treatment and rehabilitation can be provided early is very important.