About newborn hearing screening - The screen – testing
How will you screen my baby’s hearing?
There are two types of tests.
A small soft-tipped earpiece is put in the outer part of your baby’s ear. This makes a clicking sound. The equipment shows the screener how your baby’s ears are responding to the sound. This test is called and Automated Otoacoustic Emission (AOAE).
If the equipment does not pick up a clear response, the screener may do a different test. Three small sticky pads are put on your baby’s head and neck. Small headphones are put over your baby’s ears, which will make a clicking sound. The equipment shows the screener how your baby’s ears are responding to the sound. This test is called an Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR).
When is the test done?
Over 70% of babies will be tested in the first week of life or as soon as possible after that. We aim to screen most babies by 4 weeks of age. This may not be the case if your baby is born early or is unwell and needs Special Care. In this case the screener will explain to you the best time to screen your baby.
Where is the test done?
We try to screen as many babies as possible in the hospital so we hope to offer the test before you go home. If the test is not done in hospital, it will be offered in the community, usually at a local clinic. It is really important that you let us know if you will not be attending as we might be able to offer this appointment to someone else.
It is helpful if you take baby’s seat, buggy or pram to this appointment. Your baby needs to be settled or asleep for the screening test so it helps if baby has just been fed. Written consent for the test is taken by the screener, so if this is your baby’s first screening appointment, someone with parental responsibility needs to bring baby. The ‘Parental Responsibility checklist’ sent with your clinic appointment letter tells you who has parental responsibility.
How is the test done?
A screener will carry out the test. The screening test is done while your baby is settles or asleep. It will not hurt or harm your baby and only takes a few minutes. You can stay with your baby while the test is done.
Healthcare staff follow infection and prevention control guidance. This means they follow strict hand cleaning routines and clean all clinic areas and equipment regularly.
Remember, to stop the spread of infection, do not attend for screening if you are unwell.
Contact us if you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s screening appointment, or need an interpreter to support you during the appointment.
Page last reviewed: 27th May 2025