What should we do if a newborn fails the 42-day hearing screening?

Patient's question:

No

Doctor's answer:

Neonatal hearing screening at 42 days showed failure in both ears. Common influencing factors include:
1. Excessive ear canal secretions in the baby, affecting sound transmission;
2. Significant ambient noise, interfering with sound transmission;
3. The baby cannot cooperate quietly.
If the above conditions are ruled out, the baby may have relatively normal hearing loss, as screening is not a definitive diagnosis—do not be overly concerned.
A re-screening can be conducted within 6 months (preferably within 3 months). Before the screening, have the baby examined by an otolaryngology department to clean ear canal secretions. Choose a quiet, noise-free examination room for the test. Feed the baby and perform the test after they fall asleep. If repeated screenings fail to pass after excluding all interfering factors, further hearing diagnostic tests should be conducted.