pediatrics

Question 1

The golden rules for fitting children

Answer 1

1) Fit as early as possible. ABR thresholds can be used
2) Fit binaurally
3) BTE + Soft mold (up to 8 yrs+) - bone conduction aids and cochlea implants may be options
4) Children have small ears and need less gain. Use individual or age-appropriate RECDS
5) Compatibility with classroom ALDs
6) DSL is the most child appropriate prescription
7) Counseling parents

Question 2

Processing considerations for children

Answer 2

1) Need greater HF gain/HF audibility
2) Prefer higher outputs for soft and medium inputs
3) Children cant adjust volume use WDRC
4) Children need better SNR (do not use full time directionality)
5) Safety considerations - tamper proof battery doors, retention, etc

Question 3

Why DSL for Kids

Answer 3

1) Takes into account differences in dB HL to dB SPL with different transducers
2) ABR values can be entered for children that can not be tested behaviorally
3) Bone conduction values can be entered - additional gain for conductive hearing loss
4) Takes in to consideration the distance of the signal source depending on the age of the child (babies are very close to the signal source aka care giver)
5) Normative RECD values available
6) Safety of signal - MPO targets avoid over amplification

Question 4

RECD

Answer 4

Real Ear to Coupler Difference - The difference between measurements of sound in the 2 cc coupler and the ear canal

Question 5

Questionnaires for measuring subjective outcomes in pediatrics

Answer 5

PEACH/TEACH - Parent’s/ Teacher’s Evaluation of Aural/Oral performance of Children

IT-MAIS - Infant-Toddler meaningful auditory integration scale

SIFTER - Screening instrument for targeting educational risk