Retrospective Study of Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening Program in Nakhonsawan: Anticipating Improved Outcomes

Narut  Wongsakorn; Naret Taengyai; Chaowaphon Ittiphanitphong; Pich Amatamahutana; Pimpet Pimpet

Authors

Narut Wongsakorn Sawanpracharak Hospital
Naret Taengyai Sawanpracharak Hospital
Chaowaphon Ittiphanitphong Sawanpracharak Hospital
Pich Amatamahutana Sawanpracharak Hospital
Pimpet Sukumalpaiboon Sawanpracharak Hospital

Keywords:

Universal newborn hearing screening, Hearing loss, TEOAEs

Abstract

Introduction: Newborn hearing loss is a significant health concern that can impact speech, language, and cognitive development. The Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening (UNHS) program aims to promptly identify hearing impairments in newborns for timely interventions and improved outcomes.

Objectives: This retrospective study assessed the effectiveness of the UNHS program in Nakhonsawan, specifically regarding coverage rate, identification of high-risk newborns, referral rates, prevalence of hearing loss, and audiological risk factors.

Methods: Data were collected from November 2021 to May 2023 at all 20 participating hospitals in the UNHS program. Newborns were screened using either Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions (TEOAEs) or Automatic Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) tests. Newborns with abnormal screening results underwent further diagnostic testing using Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) or Auditory Steady-State Response (ASSR) tests for confirmation.

Results: A total of 2,623 newborns were screened, with a coverage rate of 66.9%. Among the screened infants, 15.0% were classified as high-risk. The two-stage screening protocol significantly reduced referral rates from 18.6% to 6.6%. The most prevalent risk factors in Nakhonsawan were ototoxic medications (80.3%), preterm labor (32.5%), and NICU stays longer than five days (21.7%).

Conclusion: The UNHS program in Nakhonsawan plays a crucial role in improving outcomes for infants with hearing loss and provides valuable information to managers and healthcare personnel involved in public health. Continuing to implement and support the UNHS program is essential to ensure the improved well-being of newborns.

Keywords: Universal newborn hearing screening, Hearing loss, TEOAEs

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