Auditory brainstem response

The auditory brainstem response (ABR) test is frequently used to measure hearing sensitivity and to evaluate the auditory system. The test involved a computer measuring the way a child’s hearing nerve responds to different sounds. Audiologists performed the ABR recordings during both the study and control group. The process involved electrodes being placed typically on a child’s forehead and in front or in back of the ears. The electrodes are connected to the computer, and earphones are placed on the child to help measure the hearing. Each ear was stimulated separately by alternating clicks at a normal hearing level. During the process, the audiologists focus on neurological “markers” as the child’s hearing nerves respond to the sounds. At…

Burkard, R. F., & Sims, D. (2001). The Human Auditory Brainstem Response to High Click Rates: Aging Effects. American Journal of Audiology, 10, 53-61. doi:10.1044/1059-0889(2001/008) Although extensive research has been conducted to determine the effects of aging on peripheral hearing sensitivity, the effects of aging on the central auditory nervous system through the use of auditory brainstem response (ABR) procedures is less commonly researched. A previous study attempted to examine the…

Once learning the basics about Cerebral Palsy (CP), I chose to dig deeper into the more modern diagnostic tools and treatments. As an aspiring Audiologist, I looked into tools I would one day use if I were on a case with an individual with CP and found an article about the Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) tool that is being used to determine hearing loss and likelihood of other related disabilities in tandem with CP. The study done showed significance in correlation with most other causes of CP…

and how we take advantage of its power deserve closer exploration. Led by Dr. Nina Kraus, a group of neuroscientists in the Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory (that call themselves “brainvolts”) at Northwestern University have dived into this field. They showed that musicians have stronger auditory cognitive…

Located in the innermost region of the brain is brainstem. The brainstem consist of two parts the medulla, and the pons. The brainstem begins where the spinal cord starts to enlarge right after it passes through the skull. This enlargement is called the medulla, the medulla is the control mechanism of our heartbeat, and breathing. Connected right above the medulla are the pons, this section is responsible for the help of coordinating movement. “The brainstem is a crossover point. Here, you’ll…

Both of these tests are noninvasive, can be easily performed on infants and detect sensory hearing loss. However, A-ABR test measures the peripheral auditory system, as well as the cranial nerve and brainstem pathway, while EOAE test measures the peripheral auditory system and the outer hair cells of the cochlea. In the past, NIH has recommended ABR testing for infants who failed initial EOAE testing (NIH, 1993). While infants with positive ABR results (hearing loss was suspected) would continue…

easy-to-understand manner in order to explain the procedure and to obtain a verbal consent. Firstly, the audiologist collects related information from the child’s caregiver using brief closed questions. Northern and Downs (2014) point out that gathering relevant information in relation to child’s medical history, developmental milestones, parental concerns and more, is vital to building rapport with the patient and the family, understanding child’s behaviour, selecting more suitable tests and…

Of the five senses, hearing is an essential medium, which connects us with one another and our surrounding environment. My personal experience on how important the sense of hearing has influenced my decision in having a career in this field. As an undergraduate student I majored in SLHS, did research with professors and continued on in volunteering in audiology clinics. These experiences had driven me into becoming a hearing screening and further my interest in audiology. Firstly, as a…

functions. Urging systems to check and corporate internal organ functions that adjust with surrounding transformations occurring in environments. The central nervous system involves three central components; forebrain, brainstem, and hindbrain. Duties of the forebrain vary in functions including; receiving, processing sensory, intelligence, perceiving, and understanding language. The forebrain structures thalamus and hypothalamus are amenable for the functions of: sensory information,…

Music and art are tools that can become a huge impact in a disabled child’s life when they are incorporated in the child’s everyday activities during their development as a child. The use of sound or auditory hearings as well as artistic assignments can be very helpful in order for the child to become more connected with the world through interaction with others. These children gain many new skills that assist them in being more united with others around them. Even though the utilization of art…