Paediatrics• Updated 21 October 2026
Newborn Hearing Screening
A quick, painless test that checks a newborn's hearing.
Results: Immediately
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To find hearing loss early so support can start.
What It Measures
Ear responses to soft sounds (OAE or AABR).
Preparation
Best done while the baby is asleep.
Overview
Early detection helps speech and language development.
A 'refer' result doesn't always mean hearing loss.
What It Measures
Ear response
To soft clicks.
How It's Performed
- 01
Settle
Baby asleep or calm.
- 02
Probe
A soft tip in the ear.
- 03
Result
Pass or refer.
Interpreting Results & Next Steps
Discuss with Doctor
Your doctor will explain what your result means and what happens next.
If values are High:
A refer result means a repeat or more detailed test.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Hearing Tests for Children(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine