Wyoming Pediatric Audiology Specialty Clinic

What is the Wyoming Pediatric Audiology Specialty Clinic?

The Wyoming Pediatric Audiology Specialty Clinic provides age appropriate and timely evaluations for infants and young children who fail their newborn and/or late onset hearing screenings.

What is a pediatric diagnostic hearing evaluation?

A pediatric diagnostic hearing evaluation is a way to find out what your child hears. The evaluation includes many different tests. The results will give a complete picture of your child's hearing. Because many different tests are done, a pediatric diagnostic hearing evaluation may take up to several hours to complete and it is very possible that you may need to return for a second visit.

Why does my child need a diagnostic hearing evaluation?

If your child failed his/her newborn or late onset hearing screening, they will be referred for a diagnostic hearing evaluation. Hearing plays a vital role in the early development of a child. If even the slightest hearing loss exists, it is important to diagnose it early in order to help your child develop to his/her fullest potential.

What will happen after the hearing evaluation?

You will be informed of the results of your child's hearing evaluation as soon as it is completed. You will also receive a written report in the mail. If a hearing loss is detected, you will be referred to a free early intervention program in your community. You may also need to schedule appointments for additional testing or hearing aid fittings, if recommended.

How do I prepare my child for the diagnostic hearing evaluation?

For some of the hearing tests, your newborn may need to be sleeping. If your newborn is not sleeping, some important test results may not be able to be obtained.

These suggestions may help you prepare your newborn to rest comfortably during the evaluation.

• Try not to let your newborn nap before the appointment.
• Feeding your newborn just before testing may help to get him/her to sleep. You may even do this once you arrive at the testing appointment.
• Bring a blanket, extra diapers, change of clothes, and extra formula (if used).
• You can try to schedule your newborn's appointment for a time when he/she is likely to sleep.

Older infants and toddlers should be awake and alert for their hearing evaluation. Sometimes a snack beforehand is helpful so they do not get hungry during their appointment. It is also helpful if they are feeling well and rested.