Early identification of hearing loss: practices and procedures.

Abstract

Early identification and management of hearing loss is of critical importance for maximizing a hearing-impaired child's language-learning potential. This article discusses the benefits of early identification. The process of identification of hearing loss in preschool children, including infant screening techniques, audiological testing methods, and other tests used to determine the kind and degree of hearing loss, are discussed. Appropriate habilitation and educational placement is also discussed, including hearing aid selection and parent participation.