Pediatricians' knowledge and attitude toward hearing loss and newborn hearing screening programs

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Audiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Early detection of hearing loss is critical for managing infants and young children.
• Pediatricians are often the first point of contact for suspected childhood hearing loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate pediatricians' knowledge and attitudes regarding newborn hearing screening and management.
• To identify gaps in understanding and practice related to pediatric hearing loss.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey using a validated questionnaire was conducted.
• The study involved pediatricians at a single tertiary academic health care institution.

Main Results:

• Most pediatricians (79.4%) believe newborn hearing screening is very important.
• Significant knowledge gaps exist regarding post-screening management, cochlear implant candidacy, and specialist referrals.
• While confident in explaining institutional screening processes, many were unsure about national programs and referral protocols.

Conclusions:

• Pediatricians exhibit gaps in knowledge and awareness concerning newborn hearing loss assessment and management.
• Enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration is necessary to improve the care of newborns with hearing impairments.
• Future research should explore auditory and speech outcomes and rehabilitation awareness.