What is the standard approach to newborn hearing screening and follow-up?

• A. Universal newborn hearing screening at birth; if screening is failed, diagnostic audiology testing and early intervention referral.
• B. Screen only if risk factors are present.
• C. Screening only in preschool.
• D. No follow-up after failed screening.

Answer: (A)

Universal newborn hearing screening at birth, with diagnostic follow-up and early intervention if the screen is failed, is the standard approach. Screening all newborns ensures that babies with congenital hearing loss are identified early, even if they have no risk factors. Tests used are quick and noninvasive, like otoacoustic emissions or automated auditory brainstem response, and are designed to be done before discharge from the birth setting. If a baby does not pass the initial screen, a diagnostic audiology assessment is performed to confirm the hearing status, followed by referral to early intervention services to support speech and language development, with amplification or other options as appropriate. Delaying until preschool would miss a critical window for language acquisition, and there must be follow-up after a failed screen to ensure timely diagnosis and support.