There is no interpretation required. Consequently the AABR allows for a variety of trained hospital personnel to perform the screen such as nurses, technicians, support staff, or volunteers. The echo is analyzed to determine how well the inner ear is working. This procedure can be performed by trained hospital personnel such as audiologists, nurses, or technicians. The OAE technology requires minimal test interpretation to determine a pass or refer.
Many hospitals require an audiologist to score or interpret the results.
Automated OAE technology is now available. However this technology has not been adequately field tested for newborn hearing screening.