Minimal Hearing Loss

Question 1

How do we define a minimal hearing loss?

Answer 1

Unilateral loss greater than 20dB

Mild bilateral loss between 20-40dB

High Frequency loss >25dB at two frequencies about 2000Hz in one or both ears

Question 2

Difficulties with diagnosing minimal hearing loss in an infant?

Answer 2

ABR may not be senstivie enough to detect MHL
We use 10dB steps rather than 5dB steps
BC not sensitive enough
Infants may be reluctant to wear headphones
May appear to hear well

Question 3

Symptoms of MHL

Answer 3

inappropriate responses
don't sit still and listen
difficulty following direction
difficulty maintaining attention
Academic failure
lower energy/fatigue
poorer language outcomes
increased cognitive load

Question 4

SIFTER

Answer 4

ID educationally at risk, possibly as a results of auditory problems
Compares students to classmates
Completed by teacher

Screening Instrument for Targeting Educational Risk

Question 5

CHAPS

Answer 5

Children’s Auditory Performance Scale

Quantify observed listening behaviours
Six-listening conditions; 7 point scale

Pass or At Risk

Children 7years and older

Question 6

Questionnaires to assess aided benefit

Answer 6

COSI-C
PEACH - Parents Evaluation of Aural performance in Children
TEACH

Question 7

Educational outcomes of MHL

Answer 7

37% may fail a grade

54% may require extra support