RISK FACTORS AND PREVALENCE OF HEARING LOSS IN NEONATES IN THE NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT: A HOSPITAL-BASED CLINICAL STUDY

Abstract

_{Background: One of the most common disabilities seen in the neonates is the hearing loss. Early 
detection and screening in neonates and children can safeguard them from various ill-effects of 
hearing loss in vulnerable age groups of neonates and child subjects. 
Aim:  The present study was aimed to identify the vital risk factors and to assess the prevalence 
of the hearing loss in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) in Indian Hospital. 
Methods:  In 265 neonates admitted to the NICU unit of the institute, the risk factors for hearing 
loss were assessed following the JCIH (Joint Committee of Infant Hearing). The screening tests 
done for hearing were AABR (automated auditory brain stem response) and TEOAEs (transient 
evoked otoacoustic emissions).}