A computer displays waveforms and this test can tell fairly well if a child's hearing is normal. This procedure is mostly performed at the hospital. This type of test is not a hearing test but a method that shows how well the eardrum moves when a soft sound and air pressure are initiated in the ear canal. It can identify middle ear problems, such as fluid behind the eardrum. These tests involve careful observation of a child's behavioral response to sounds like standardized speech and pure tones.
Pure tones are the clear pitches, or frequencies, of sounds.
Responses can range from a baby's eye movement to an older child's raising of his or her hand. Physiologic Tests Physiologic tests are not hearing tests but are beneficial to very young children who can somewhat guess hearing function. Usually, behavioral tests are performed with physiologic tests. The information parents and caregivers can provide along with behavioral testing are extremely helpful in estimating the status provided by physiologic tests. Otocaustic Emissions Test A child can be awake for this test but should be quiet.