Name of the Procedure:

Select Picture Audiometry

Summary

Select Picture Audiometry is a hearing test designed for young children who might not be able to verbally communicate or identify sounds through traditional audiometry tests. During this test, children point to pictures that correspond with the sounds they hear through headphones.

Purpose

The procedure is used to assess hearing ability in young children. The goal is to identify hearing loss or impairments early, ensuring timely intervention and support for speech and language development.

Indications

• Children aged 2 to 5 who are suspected of having hearing difficulties.
• Children who cannot reliably respond to standard hearing tests.
• Symptoms such as delayed speech development, frequent ear infections, or inattentiveness.

Preparation

• No special preparation is typically needed.
• Ensuring the child is well-rested and in a calm state prior to the appointment can be helpful.
• Parents might be asked to bring familiar items or comfort toys.

Procedure Description

1. The child is seated comfortably in a sound-treated room.
2. Headphones are placed over the child's ears.
3. The audiologist plays various sounds through the headphones.
4. The child is instructed to point to corresponding pictures on a board or tablet that match the sounds they hear.
5. The audiologist records the responses to determine the child’s hearing ability.

The tools used include headphones, a sound-treated room, and picture boards or tablets. No anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in an audiologist's office, often within a hospital or outpatient clinic setting.

Personnel

• Audiologist

Risks and Complications

• There are no significant risks or complications associated with Select Picture Audiometry.
• Some children may feel anxious or uncooperative, which can be mitigated with a comforting presence and a calm environment.

Benefits

• Early detection of hearing issues.
• Non-invasive and child-friendly.
• Helps guide further assessment and intervention strategies.

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed.
• Children can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Alternatives

• Behavioral observation audiometry.
• Play audiometry, another child-centric hearing test using play-based responses.
• Traditional pure-tone audiometry for older or more cooperative children.

Patient Experience

Children might feel curious or slightly anxious at first but often find the experience to be like playing a game. The audiologist ensures a comforting and supportive environment to make the child feel at ease during the test.