Several methods are commonly used for hearing screening in children:
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) OAE tests measure sound waves produced in the inner ear. A tiny probe is placed in the ear canal, which sends sounds into the ear and measures the echo that returns.
Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) ABR tests measure the brain's activity in response to sounds. Electrodes are placed on the child's scalp, and sounds are played through earphones. This method is often used for newborns and infants.
Pure Tone Audiometry This test is typically performed on older children who can follow instructions. The child wears headphones and indicates when they hear sounds at different pitches and volumes.