Download Why does my baby need further hearing tests?

WA Newborn Hearing Screening Program
Why does my baby need further hearing tests?
There can be a number of reasons that your baby did not obtain a clear result from the
first two hearing screens:
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It could be that there was fluid or other matter present that had entered the ear
canal during the birth process.
Presence of temporary middle ear fluid.
Your baby being too restless at the time of the screen.
Your baby may have some degree of hearing loss.
If your baby did not get a clear result from the first two hearing screens, they will need
further hearing testing. A paediatric audiologist, who is a specialist in hearing testing,
will carry out these tests. None of these tests will hurt your baby
It is important to find out as soon as possible how well your baby hears.
What will happen at the next hearing test?
A number of tests will be performed to give detailed information about how well your
baby hears.
How do I prepare my baby for the assessment?
It is best if your baby sleeps during the tests. Because of this, it is helpful to arrive a little
early to give yourself time to feed and settle your baby to sleep.
You must stay with your baby throughout the assessment. If you have other children,
please arrange to have someone mind them at home or elsewhere. The environment
must be quiet.
It is recommended to set aside the morning or afternoon depending on when your
appointment has been scheduled. You may like to bring a support person with you.
How is the further testing done?
The main test is called the Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) test.
Sensors similar to those used in the first screen will be placed on your baby’s head.
Sounds will be played through headphones to your baby. These sounds are the softest
sounds that a baby can hear.
Other hearing tests that may be performed on the day will be explained to you at the
time.
What will happen after the assessment?
The paediatric audiologist will be able to inform you of the results and explain what the
results mean, usually on the same day.
If your baby is found to have any problems with their hearing, you will be referred to the
appropriate services to discuss treatment and service options and support. With your
permission, a report will be sent to these services and a copy will also be sent to you,
your GP and your child health nurse.
There is information available to guide families of children who may have a hearing loss.
This information will help you to make choices and decisions for the services you will
need for your child. There are also practical tips and ways to link to other support
services for you and your baby.
If at any stage you become concerned about your child’s hearing, speech, or language
development, please arrange to have their hearing tested again.
Cost
This assessment is free of charge for Medicare card holders. For overseas residents,
including 457 visas, there is a current charge of $203 for each occasion of service. This
amount is reviewed at the beginning of each financial year.
A rebate through private health cover may be possible.
To access more information about eligibility, please visit:
http://cahs.hdwa.health.wa.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/108773/overseas.ineligib
le_patient_brochure.pdf
Assistance
If you live outside the metropolitan area you will be given information on how to access
the Patient Assisted Transport Scheme (PATS).
Produced by: Newborn Hearing Screening © CAHS 0805 December 2013
C h i l d a n d Ad o l e s c e n t H e a l t h S e r v i c e
Princess Margaret Hospital For Children
Roberts Road, Subiaco WA 6008 Tel ephone: (08) 9340 8222
This information is available in
other formats upon request