Universal newborn hearing screening (UNHS) uses which test as the primary screening tool?
- A Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions (TEOAE) ✓
- B Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
- C Pure Tone Audiometry
- D Behavioural Observation Audiometry
Correct answer: A. Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions (TEOAE)
Explanation
TEOAE is the primary UNHS test because it is quick, automated, non-invasive, low-cost, and detects outer hair cell function. Neonates who fail TEOAE screening are referred for automated ABR (AABR) as a diagnostic confirmatory test. Pure tone audiometry requires behavioural responses and is not feasible in neonates. BOA is subject to tester bias and lacks precision in newborns.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.