Paediatric first assessment with Audiology (104kB pdf)
Introduction
This guide will answer your questions about your child’s first assessment with Audiology.
What is an Appointment to discuss hearing aids?
This appointment is to assess your child’s hearing. We will look in your child’s ear and check for obstructions. We will perform tests of middle ear function that look for things like glue ear. This involves playing a small, painless change of pressure into the ear. We will assess hearing using a variety of methods involving games and looking for responses to sound. We understand that sometimes children do not want to do some of these things and will work with you and your child to obtain a clear set of results. Some older children may be able to perform a routine button pressing hearing test.
Getting to us
Please check your appointment letter for this information.
Where do you provide appointments?
We provide appointments at St. Margaret’s Hospital in Epping and Herts and Essex Hospital in Bishop’s Stortford.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive at the time stated in your appointment letter and no more than 10 mins ahead of this.
How long will it take?
A typical hearing assessment lasts around 30 to 45 minutes.
The day of the appointment:
Who will my child see?
Your child will see a Paediatric Audiologist or Trainee Paediatric Audiologist. All of our Audiologists are trained to at least BSc (degree) level. Our students are supervised either with someone in the room, or if they are experienced students, they may see you themselves. Audiologists are Healthcare Scientists, not doctors.
Can I bring someone with me?
You are welcome to bring someone to support you to your appointment.
After the appointment:
What are the likely outcomes?
Depending on the results, you may be offered no further management with discharge, referral to the Ear, Nose and Throat Department for any further investigations, hearing aids, or watchful waiting. It is rare for children to be offered hearing aids and most permanent hearing impairments are discovered during the Newborn Hearing Screening Program when children are first born.
Does your department offer de-waxing?
No, we are unable to offer this service.
Contacting the team
Audiology Department: St Margaret’s Hospital, The Plain, Epping, CM16 6TN Phone number: 01279 827126, Email: [email protected]
If you would like this leaflet in another language or format, or you would like to give
feedback on your care, please contact our patient experience team at [email protected]