Download Two different types of hearing tests are used to screen for hearing

Two different types of hearing tests are used to screen for
hearing loss in babies. Both of these tests are safe and
comfortable.
Otoacoustic Emissions
One of the tests is called otoacoustic emissions or OAEs. For this test, sounds
are played via a miniature earphone probe placed in the baby’s ear. If a baby’s
inner ear is working properly, it will emit an echo which is reflected back into the
ear canal and measured by the probe. When a baby has a hearing loss, no echo
can be measured and the baby will not pass the OAE test.
Auditory Brainstem Response
The second test is called the Auditory Brainstem Response or ABR. This test
differs from the OAE, because it tests both the ear, as well as, the nerve that
transmits sounds to the baby’s brain. For the ABR test, sounds are played via a
miniature earphone probe placed in the baby’s ear or through tiny earphones that
go over the ears. Band-aid like electrodes are placed on the baby's head. This
test measures how the baby’s hearing system is working by measuring how the
baby’s brain responds to sound. If the sound does not reach the brain, they will
not pass the ABR test.
The two tests can be used separately or together. In some situations, babies are
first screened using OAEs. Babies who do not pass on the first OAE test can be
given a second test using the ABR. Both tests are reliable.
If you have any additional questions about infant hearing screening, please
contact the Wisconsin Sound Beginnings Program at (608) 267-9191