newborn Hearing Screening
Routine test conducted in hospital to detect hearing loss in infants, using sensors to measure ear response to sound.
| Timing | Within first few days after birth |
| Prevalence of hearing loss | 1–3 per 1,000 births |
| Detection rate | 85–100% of cases |
| False positive rate | ~4% fail initial screening |
Purpose
Early detection of hearing loss enables timely intervention (hearing aids, cochlear implants) to support language acquisition and reduce need for later treatment. Many hearing conditions are not visible and cannot be diagnosed without screening.
Testing Method
Equipment: Sensors placed on head or ear probes inserted in ear canal
Process:
- Sensors detect whether middle and inner ear respond normally to tones
- Infant typically sleeps during test
- No cooperation required from baby
- Non-invasive, no risk
Location: Conducted in hospital room or separate testing area
Results
Pass: No further action required
Fail (initial): Does not confirm hearing loss
- 4% of infants fail first test
- Only 0.1–0.3% actually have hearing loss
- Referral to formal audiological centre for comprehensive evaluation
- Consider requesting second screening whilst still in hospital to reduce false positives
Conditions Detected
- conductive hearing loss (middle ear)
- sensorineural hearing loss (inner ear/auditory nerve)
- Mixed hearing loss
Follow-Up
Failed screening generates automatic referral. Audiological assessment typically includes:
- Repeat screening with more sophisticated equipment
- Diagnostic tests to determine type and severity of hearing loss
- Treatment planning if hearing loss confirmed
See also: Newborn Blood Screening, Developmental Milestones, Language Development, Hospital Procedures After Birth