The implications for educational services of universal neonatal hearing screening

Author(s): Nanor, J.

Journal/Book: Deaf Educ. 1997; 21: C/O G F E Clark, 2 Gaters Gardens, Sandford, Crediton, England EX17 4LU. British Assoc Teachers Deaf. 19-33.

Abstract: The development of methods of recording transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE) has enabled the hearing screening of all neonates. However such screening program mes have considerable implications for pre-school educational services. In the East London borough of Waltham Forest a universal neonatal screen has been implemented. Over a 3-year period, 14 infants resident within the borough with a permanent hearing impairment of moderate degree or worse in the better ear, were identified by tile screen. The youngest was referred to the teacher of the deaf aged 12 days, with a median age of referral for those with a severe or worse deafness being 11 weeks. Referral of those with a moderate hearing impairment was relatively delayed but was still usually undertaken in the second half of infancy. The implementation of universal neonatal screens is being reviewed for the Department of Health. The implications for pre-school educational services are discussed in the light of the results reported from the 3-year cohort.

Note: Article Watkin PM, Whipps Cross Hosp & Chest Clin, Forest Healthcare, Audiol Serv, London E11, ENGLAND

Keyword(s): OTOACOUSTIC EMISSION; IDENTIFICATION; CHILDREN; DEAFNESS; AUDIOMETRY; IMPAIRMENT

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