Newborn hearing screening: When should it be performed for the first time?

Aim The aim of this study is to examine the effect of the time interval between birth and the first hearing screening test on screening results, to determine the most appropriate screening time between birth and discharge, and to reduce parental anxiety and costs. Methods Our study included all newborns screened with the ABR device between October 20, 2023, and March 31, 2024, as part of the newborn hearing screening program at the audiology clinic. Only those who passed bilaterally were given a “Pass” result. Those who remained unilateral or bilateral were given a “Fail” result and were referred. Results The study included 1,838 participants, 50.1% of whom were female and 49.9% male. It was determined that 1,131 participants passed bilaterally, 707 remained bilateral, 1,268 passed on the right, and 1,222 passed on the left. When the groups were compared within themselves and in pairs, the success rate of the screening test performed on the 5th day and thereafter was higher, and there was a statistically significant difference. Conclusion According to our study, the likelihood of bilateral passing increases as the day of the test increases, especially after the third day.