subject: Does Your Infant Need A Hearing Test? [print this page] When you have a new baby, the last thing you want to be concerned with is whether they can use one of their five senses. No matter how much you do not want to think about it, it is important to take note of signs that your child may not be able to hear. Sometimes, it is hard to know when a baby is small, so a hearing test might be a safe thing to do even if the baby will end up passing it. Early discovery for this impairment is helpful for successful language skills and overall development.
Signs that a baby may not be able to hear are a lack of response when spoken to or no response to sounds like clapping hands or loud noises around them. These tests are not always accurate because babies might just be used to some sounds, so they do not notice them. Some babies actually like other sounds like a vacuum. It also may depend on the tone of a sound. On the other hand, you might think your baby hears a sound when actually he or she may just feel vibrations. The only way to really know is to have a hearing test done on your infant.
When you go for an infant hearing test, make sure to have someone look at your child's ears first. If there is fluid on the ear then you may end up with a false negative. It is also important as you consider the place to take your child that you go someplace that is used to working with pediatrics. It can be frustrating for you as the parent to go someplace that does not meet the needs of babies with the facilities. Another important consideration is whether or not there are two testers. For infants and toddlers, it is helpful to have two testers.
The hearing test may be difficult on your baby because there is a lot of poking in the ears. It is important to do everything you can to prepare your baby to sleep during the testing. You may want to plan to feed him or her right before. You may also want to bring a favorite blanket or swaddle sack so that the baby feels like it is time to sleep. Some testing facilities will sedate babies, but that is, of course, up to the parents.
Having a hearing test done on your infant can be nerve-racking because no one wants their baby to be impaired in this area. If the tests you have done are not conclusive, you would be wise to get a second opinion at another reputable clinic.
