Survey on the methods of neonatal hearing screening implemented in Italy.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Currently in Italy procedures for auditory neonatal screening are not similar among different regions, due to no universal and standardized methods. The aim of this report is to identify existing protocols across Italy and their application.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
An online survey was administered to audiometric technicians working in the national territory. Sampling was of convenient, carried out through most used social platforms and created using computer tools by italian audiometric technicians. A descriptive statistical analysis of obtained data was subsequently carried out.
RESULTS
168 audiometer technicians participated in the survey. Protocols suggested by JCIH are the most used by audiometricians: in 100% of italian territory at birth points the method involving execution of OAE is adopted and in intensive therapies a-ABR method is used. Analysis of questionnaire responses shows that 64% of them are involved in neonatal audiological screening: 55% at birth points; 46% at neonatal intensive care. Most used methods in healthy and long-term births are otoacoustic emissions (OAE), (51%); in infants with risk factors in intensive therapy is a-ABR, (65%). The results show that not all audiometric technicians are involved in the screening and often other healthcare professionals. are performing the procedures. Different instrumental methodologies are used to investigate hearing function, not only between regions but also between hospitals belonging to the same region. In addition, there are differences in the adoption of the protocols suggested by the Joint Committee on Infant Hearing, in different healthcare institutions.
CONCLUSIONS
In almost all the Country, the results of audiological neonatal screening are collected not only by different methods, but also for different professionals from one region to another. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of define modalities and actors in the health sector involved in the prevention of neonatal hearing disorders.
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