Abstract
This article 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 performed in the free field at two stimulus levels (65 dB
sound pressure level [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 audiologists' approach to
rehabilitation and 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.
Keywords
Cortical auditory evoked potential - hearing - hearing aid - infant
