Universal newborn hearing screening: Parental reflections on very early audiological management

OBJECTIVE: This article seeks to understand very early audiological management from a parental perspective, after the early identification of their child's hearing loss through universal newborn hearing screening (UNHS). DESIGN: Data are taken from the national evaluation of the introduction of UNHS in England. Forty-five parents and caregivers participated in a qualitative, narrative study within which they identified key challenges generated by the audiological management of very young babies with hearing loss at home. RESULTS: Concern centered on the virtual timetable constructed by parents after screening, the practical daily management issues and the need to establish infant rather than a child focus in audiological practice. In addition, specific challenges relating to moderate hearing loss were identified. CONCLUSIONS: Results are of particular relevance to pediatric audiologists, teachers of the deaf and those offering early intervention services. © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.