Hearing screenings
A new born hearing screening is the standard of care at hospitals and its purpose is to identify infants who are likely to have hearing loss or who are susceptible to it. If the newborn fails the screening, further testing can determine whether he or she does in fact have hearing loss and it’s degree. Just because the newborn “fails” the hearing screening it does not necessarily mean the baby has hearing loss. The hospital will refer you to an Audiologist after a failed result. The audiologist will further evaluate, detect the child’s type of hearing loss and fit the infant with equipment best suited to their needs. If there is a permanent hearing loss the Audiologist will recommend different options as well.
Hearing and Speech Development
Why is it important for infants to be screened for hearing loss? In terms of speech development, this could be considered a developmental emergency. Failing the screening, will lead to further testing. If, in fact, the newborn does have hearing loss, it is very important to rehabilitate their hearing as soon as possible. Hearing is directly involved with speech and language development. Research has shown in week 18 of the fetal development, babies may hear sounds. “Failure to detect congenital or acquired hearing loss in children may result in lifelong deficits in speech and language acquisition, poor academic performance, personal-social maladjustment, and emotional difficulties” (Harlor & Bower, 2009, p. 1253)(ASHA.org). Audiologists are the professionals who help determine the type of hearing loss and other factors. It is not uncommon for Speech and Language Pathologists to work closely with Audiologists.
Resources:
“Newborn Infant Hearing Screening: Overview.” American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. ASHA, n.d. Web. 29 June 2017.
“Childhood Hearing Screening: Overview.” American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. ASHA, n.d. Web. 29 June 2017.
If you or someone you know needs the services of a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist, please be sure to discuss your concerns with a physician, a speech-language pathologist, or another qualified provider. You can also find a provider through the ASHA ProFind service or visit us at www.bilingualspeech.org for more information. NOTE: This article is intended only as a general source of information, i.e, it is not intended to replace information given to you by a qualified health professional that is familiar with your particular circumstances. If you have an urgent medical need, please seek immediate medical attention.