subject: Learning About The Baer Hearing Test [print this page] The BAER hearing test stands for Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response. It is also called an ABR, which stands for Auditory Brainstem Response. This type is used for infants as well as for those who do not understand how to make a response. Those who are delayed may benefit from this type of testing. This testing is not fool-proof and may at times give a false negative.
When you have a new baby, most likely he or she will be given an Oto-accoustic emissions hearing test. If this is not passed in the hospital, then it is likely that you will be referred to an audiologist who can do a series of tests. One of these tests will likely be called the BAER or the ABR.
These tests are fairly straightforward. It is best if someone is asleep for them, because it is important that they be completely still and not have any other stimuli influence the results. Sometimes individuals are sedated for it.
The problem with these tests is that they can be skewed if there is fluid in the middle ear or if there is wax blocking the canal. Both of these can be problems in infants. Sometimes it may actually take tubes in an infant's ears to get an accurate hearing test so that there is no fluid causing a false negative.
These tests are not painful. Electrodes are simply placed on the patient's forehead, scalp, and ear lobes. Ear buds of a sort are put in each ear. Some babies may be very sensitive to this, but if you can get them to calm down fine after, you should be okay.
Something that may be beneficial before doing a BAER hearing test is taking them to the ENT to have the ears examined. Try to have any wax build-up cleaned out, and have the doctor check for any redness or fluid. They still may do the testing, but they will do it knowing about a possible wrong result.
If you have an infant or a child that is developmentally delayed, it might be scary for you to take them in for a hearing test. The thought of having a child be impaired in this way can be very disheartening if it is new to you. Do not be discouraged no matter what the outcome may be. These tests can be wrong, so it is important to ask for a second opinion when you believe it is necessary.
