130: Newborn Hearing Screening: Navigating Newborn Hearing Tests and Early Intervention with Kelsey Kerkhove

Emily and Jamie introduce this week’s episode sharing their family dynamics of dividing and conquering the weekends with their six kids. They then introduce their guest, Kelsey Kerkhove, Au.D., CCC-A, pediatric audiologist from California. Emily and Kelsey discuss the role of a pediatric audiologist, emphasizing the importance of early identification and intervention for hearing loss in infants. Kelsey explains the routine nature of the newborn hearing screening, a requirement before babies leave the hospital, and stresses its significance in identifying congenital hearing loss. Kelsey dispels misconceptions about deafness and underscores the positive outcomes facilitated by the newborn hearing screening process.

The duo discuss the two types of tests involved in newborn hearing screening: Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) and Automatic Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) and explain what these non-invasive tests aim to identify and address. Kelsey emphasizes the importance of follow-up appointments and the need for parents to inquire about the type of follow-up and action plan if their baby doesn't pass the initial screening. The conversation delves into the potential causes of hearing loss, specifically mentioning cytomegalovirus (CMV) and advocating for its testing in newborns within the first 21 days of life to rule out any related complications. She addresses common experiences during the hearing tests and the need for parents to be aware of potential risk factors.

Kelsey encourages parents to advocate for their babies' hearing health by asking for tests if they have concerns. She also mentions that early detection of hearing issues is crucial, and she provides information on developmental milestones related to hearing.

The conversation touches on the emotional aspects of receiving a diagnosis of hearing loss for a child and the importance of support and information. Kelsey offers resources on her Instagram page @KelseyKerkhove_AUD, where she provides blogs, guides, and one-on-one consulting for parents navigating their child's hearing journey. 

In the  "Live Ask a Nurse" segment, Emily and Jamie respond to a listener's question about losing their mucus plug, explaining its role in pregnancy, debunking misconceptions, and reassuring that it doesn't necessarily indicate an imminent labor, while providing some light-hearted encouragement and information about the process.

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