What is the newborn hearing screening test?
In first few days of your babies hearing will be tested by friendly visitor. Here's a quick explanation of what's involved.
District Health Boards around the country have screened newborn babies for hearing loss since 2010, with some DHBs doing it for even longer. The test involves a non-invasive “click” test which can measure a baby’s brainstem response to sound and checks for abnormalities.
If there are concerns a baby is referred to an audiologist for further tests and a diagnosis can be made of mild, moderate, severe or profound hearing loss. For more details, talk to your local GP or Plunket nurse or visit www.hearinghouse.co.nz
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