A Survey Study on Physiological Hearing Assessment Practice in the USA

Background: In the United States, limited information exists regarding the physiological measures and testing parameters used in infant hearing assessments. To address this gap, we conducted a nationwide survey to identify the types of physiological tests and procedures currently employed by audiologists. Method: A structured survey was distributed to audiologists across the country to gather information about the auditory tests and recording parameters used in infant hearing evaluations. Results: Most respondents reported using Auditory Brainstem Responses (ABRs) to estimate infant hearing thresholds, primarily relying on traditional stimuli rather than chirp stimuli. The Auditory Steady-State Response (ASSR) was not widely used for threshold estimation, and cortical evoked responses were infrequently recorded in pediatric populations. Responses also indicated substantial variation in the recording parameters and correction factors applied during ABR testing. Conclusion: The findings highlight inconsistencies in physiological testing practices for infant hearing assessment. Audiologists may benefit from aligning their procedures and protocols with recommendations from recognized professional organizations.