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Hearing Screen Follow-Up — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardNeonatologyHearing Screen Follow-UpRACP Paediatrics

A term newborn has a “refer” result in the right ear on the initial automated auditory brainstem response and again on the protocol repeat screen. The left ear passes. There are no craniofacial anomalies. What is the appropriate next step?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Refer for timely diagnostic audiology rather than repeat population screening

Explanation lettering: B = shown as A · E = shown as B · D = shown as C · A = shown as D · C = shown as E

A is correct because a persistent unilateral refer result exits the screening pathway and requires diagnostic audiological assessment; unilateral congenital loss still affects localisation and language. B delays diagnosis beyond the early-intervention window. C perpetuates screening instead of establishing hearing thresholds and type. D exposes the infant to imaging before diagnostic audiology defines whether structural investigation is warranted. E incorrectly treats unilateral loss as clinically unimportant. The screening result is not itself a diagnosis, so counselling should acknowledge uncertainty while ensuring the referral is completed.

Reference: Children’s Health Queensland, Newborn hearing screening: https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/our-work/healthy-hearing/newborn-hearing-screening