Preparing For The Screening Test; Acoustical Noise; Electrical Noise & Automated Abr - Interacoustics Sera Additional Information

Preparing for the screening test

The ideal environment for hearing screening is one that is acoustically quiet with minimal potential for
electrical interference (especially important for Automated ABR testing). This may not be easily achieved in a
hospital, where most newborns are screened.
Nevertheless, the screener should be aware of how the environment can impact the testing process and
results and should attempt to control the environment to the extent that it is possible.
If possible, check the external ear canal for wax with an otoscope. Excessive wax should be removed by a
trained professional prior to testing to prevent the probe tip opening from clogging, which will inhibit testing.

Acoustical noise

Acoustical noise in the screening environment can be so loud that the low-level stimulus delivered by the
hearing screening system is overwhelmed by the background noise.
Acoustical noise can also awaken the baby causing less than optimal recording conditions and artifacts that
prolong the test time.
Acoustical noise can lead to a Refer result even for a baby with normal hearing.
What can the screener do to reduce acoustical noise?
Find a location for the screening that is as quiet as possible, such as an unoccupied patient or
•
procedure room
Close the door to the test room to reduce the noise from others walking in the hallway who may be
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talking or pushing equipment that is noisy
Be aware of "hidden" sources of acoustical noise, such as air conditioner vents, motors from devices
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or other medical equipment. Try to avoid them by moving as far away as possible
Ask others in the test room to suspend talking, talk in a quieter voice, and mute or turn off radios or
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TVs while the test is being performed
Ask parents to take young visitors out of the room during the test
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Electrical noise & Automated ABR
Electrical noise in the screening environment can cause high artifact levels and generally noisy EEG,
prolonging Automated ABR test times and increasing the chance of a refer result. Electrical noise issues can
be very difficult to troubleshoot and avoid in a hospital environment.
What possible sources of electrical noise should the screener be aware of?
Other electrical equipment in the test room, especially devices attached to the baby such as other
•
monitoring equipment
Nearby cell phones, tablets, computers, walkie-talkies
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• MRI or other radiographic equipment located in the vicinity of the nursery, even on the floor above or
below¨
If the screener notices high levels of electrical artifact during testing or an increase in refer rates, these
sources of electrical interference should be considered and eliminated if possible. The screener may need
help from the infant's nurse or physician to troubleshoot electrical interference issues if it involves other types
of monitoring equipment attached to the baby that are critical to the child's care.
D-0114042-D – 2020/03
Sera™ - Additional Information Page 11