Which hearing test is commonly used for newborn infants?

The commonly used hearing test for newborn infants is the assessment of otoacoustic emissions. This test is particularly valuable in early detection of hearing loss because it is non-invasive and can be performed quickly, providing immediate results. Otoacoustic emissions measure sound waves produced in the inner ear (cochlea) in response to auditory stimuli. The presence of these emissions indicates that the cochlea is functioning normally and that the infant can hear some sounds.

Newborn screening programs often implement this test shortly after birth to ensure early identification of any hearing issues, allowing for timely intervention, which is crucial for the development of speech and language skills. While the auditory brainstem response is also used for hearing tests in newborns, it is less common than otoacoustic emissions due to it being more complex and requiring more extensive setup.

The tuning fork test and pure tone audiometry are generally not suitable for newborns. Tuning fork tests rely on the patient's ability to respond verbally or physically, which infants cannot do effectively. Pure tone audiometry requires active participation from the individual being tested, making it more appropriate for older children or adults who can adequately indicate their hearing levels.