Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 4, 2026
06:34
Infant Auditory Processing and Event-related Brain Oscillations
Published on: July 1, 2015
Universal newborn hearing screening with automated auditory brainstem response: a multisite investigation
D L Stewart1, A Mehl, J W Hall
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 571 S. Floyd Suite 342, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
Summary
Universal newborn hearing screening using automated auditory brainstem response (AABR) is feasible and effective. This method identifies hearing loss early, with a low refer rate and minimal false positives.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal care
- Audiology
- Public health
Background:
- Early detection of hearing loss in newborns is crucial for developmental outcomes.
- Universal screening programs aim to identify infants with hearing impairment shortly after birth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of universal newborn hearing screening using automated auditory brainstem response (AABR).
- To assess the effectiveness of tracking infants who did not pass initial screening through confirmatory testing.
Main Methods:
- 11,711 infants were screened using AABR in diverse clinical settings.
- Infants failing initial screening received repeat testing before discharge.
- Follow-up protocols included audiology appointments and contact for missed appointments.
Main Results:
- The refer rate was less than 2% (< 215/11,711 newborns).
- Confirmed sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) incidence was 2.7 per thousand newborns.
- The cumulative false-positive rate was 0.9%, with no false-negatives identified.
Conclusions:
- AABR screening is a feasible and effective method for universal newborn hearing screening.
- Low refer and false-positive rates minimize follow-up costs and parental anxiety.
- Screening within 24 hours of birth by various personnel is practical in typical nursery settings.
