Early Hearing Detection and Intervention
If the baby passes the hospital screening and has no risk factors, it is most likely that the child’s hearing is within normal limits at the time of the screening. Remember that a problem with hearing can occur at any time during childhood. If there is any concern about the child’s hearing or speech and language development, a physician or audiologist should be consulted.
If the baby passes the hearing screening in the hospital but has risk factors, this child has an increased possibility of a hearing loss later on. These babies should be screened again between 6 months and 1 year of age and at any time there might be a concern.
If the baby does not pass the hearing screening in the hospital further testing is needed. Noisy testing conditions, temporary fluid in the ear canal or the baby’s activity during the test can cause false positive results. However, the only way to be sure is to keep the follow up appointment.