CHAPTER ONE
Introduction
14
Introduction
1.5
OAEs and screening
OAE testing is commonly used as the primary hearing screen in newborns
with no known hearing loss risk factors. Failure to show a strong OAE
indicates that further testing or observation is necessary.
OAE testing is frequently used as the initial screen within the ‘at risk’
population. Passing the OAE test indicates that normal middle ear and
cochlear function is present. The specific risks must be evaluated to
determine whether ABR (auditory brainstem response) testing is necessary,
even after a pass at OAE. Certain clinical conditions indicate the possibility
of retro-cochlear/neurological disorders which the OAE test cannot detect.