Clinical experience of using cortical auditory evoked potentials (CAEPs) in the treatment of infant hearing loss in Australia
Date
2015Author
Punch, Simone
Van Dun, Bram
King, Alison
Carter, Lyndal
Pearce, Wendy
Metadata
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This paper presents the clinical protocol that is currently being used within Australian Hearing for infant hearing aid evaluation using cortical auditory evoked potentials (CAEPs). CAEP testing is carried out in the free field at two stimulus levels (65 dB SPL, followed by 55 or 75 dB SPL) using three brief frequency-distinct speech sounds /m/, /ɡ/ and /t/, within a standard audiological appointment of up to 90 minutes. CAEP results are used to check or guide modifications of hearing aid fittings, or to confirm unaided hearing capability.
A retrospective review of 83 client files evaluated whether clinical practice aligned with the clinical protocol. It showed that most children could be assessed as part of their initial fitting program when they were identified as a priority for CAEP testing. Aided CAEPs were most commonly assessed within 8 weeks of the fitting. A survey of 32 pediatric audiologists provided information about their perception of cortical testing at Australian Hearing. The results indicated that clinical CAEP testing influenced their approach to rehabilitation, was well received by parents, and that they were satisfied with the technique. Three case studies were selected to illustrate how CAEP testing can be used in a clinical environment. Overall, CAEP testing has been effectively integrated into the infant fitting program.