Overview
Early identification and management of hearing loss allow for better outcomes regarding a child’s development, including speech, language, and education. A summary of some tests is as follows:
| Age | Test | Additional information |
| Neonate | Automated otoacoustic emissions (AOAE) test | Tests integrity of the inner ear. A probe is placed in the ear and clicks are played. The cochlea makes sounds in response to the clicks which are measured with the probe. |
| Neonate/infant | Automated auditory brainstem responses (AABR) test | Performed if AOAE is abnormal. Tests both the integrity of the inner ear and auditory pathway. |
| 7 months – 3 years | Visual reinforcement audiometry | Used now in preference to distraction testing. Sounds are presented to the child and the child is taught to associate the sound with a visual reward (e.g. a toy). The volume and pitch of the sounds are changed to determine the quietest sounds the child can hear. |
| >3 years | Pure tone audiometry | Performed before school entry in most places in the UK |
