Understanding the Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Test
The world of sound is a wondrous place, especially for a child discovering it for the first time. For parents and caregivers, ensuring that a child can fully experience this world is paramount. This is where the Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) test comes into play—a specialized procedure designed to assess how well sound travels through the ear and reaches the midbrain.
What is the ABR Test?
The ABR test measures your child's 'hearing threshold'—the quietest sound that elicits a response in the midbrain. This test is particularly crucial for infants, even those who have passed initial newborn hearing screenings, as it provides a more detailed understanding of their auditory health.
Preparing for the Test
To ensure accurate results, the ABR test requires your baby to be asleep. Here are some preparation tips:
- Keep your baby awake until the appointment time.
- Avoid feeding your baby for at least two hours before the test. You will be asked to feed them once they are ready for the test, as a full feed usually helps them sleep well.
- Avoid bringing siblings to the appointment to minimize distractions. If necessary, bring another adult to supervise them.
- Be prepared to stay at the testing facility for an entire morning or afternoon, depending on how quickly your baby falls asleep.
What Does the Test Involve?
Upon arrival at the Audiology department, check in and wait in the designated area. If you are running late, notify the department as the test may need to be rescheduled.
In the testing room, the audiologist will prepare your baby by cleaning the skin on their forehead and behind each ear. Three sticky electrode pads will be attached, and an earpiece will be placed into each ear canal to present the sounds.
Once your baby is asleep, the test will commence. Sounds will be played into each ear, and the midbrain's response will be recorded. The volume of the sounds will gradually decrease to determine the minimum volume that prompts a response. The test also includes a check of the eardrums using a small probe.
After the Test
Upon completion, the electrodes and earpieces will be gently removed, and your baby will likely wake up. You will then have the opportunity to discuss the results with an Audiology doctor, who will explain the findings and any necessary treatment options.
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