Issues in newborn ABR screening.

The introduction of electrophysiologic measures has provided a renewed interest in the early identification of newborns and infants at risk for hearing loss. To date, 14 states have enacted mandatory legislation for newborn hearing screening, whereas other states have incorporated private and hospital-based programs. Although all state and local programs are inherently different, their common goal is to identify hearing loss as early as possible, and to provide appropriate management strategies in the rehabilitative process. While many technical and recording techniques have been established, there remain several unresolved problems associated with newborn screening programs. The purpose of this article is to bring to the forefront several issues of current concern. Major topic areas include screening versus diagnosis, program design, and stimulus variables. A final recommendation regarding the importance of follow-up services is reiterated.