Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Audiology, appointment #3

Today we went to Walter Reed for another pediatric audiology appointment. They asked us at our last visit to have Garrett practice wearing headphones to prepare for the tests. Garrett doesn't like having things in, on or anywhere near his ears.

They tried inserts and Garrett pulled those right out. I held his hands, but he still rubbed his head and moved all over so that the inserts would fall out.

The ditched that idea after a few minutes and started the normal testing. Garrett remembered this part and was looking for the bear and the bunny as soon as we sat down. They brought out the pegs to get his attention centered. Unfortunately, with Garrett there is no middle ground. He is either not interested in the toys and is looking around too much or he's so focused on the toys, he doesn't turn at all when they start the sounds.

They tried the individual ear testing again, but with headphones. That lasted all of 30 seconds. Garrett wanted nothing to do with them.

They tried to get a fluid reading. This is when the meltdown started. He had already put up with us putting things in and on his ears, but holding him down and sticking stuff in his ears... He was done.

They want us to come back next month for a PABR (Pediatric Auditory Brainstem Response) test.

General Testing Information:

For some children, reliable results from behavioral hearing tests cannot be obtained. The ABR can provide useful information about the amound and type of hearing loss and the function of the auditory nerve.

During the ABR, sounds are presented to the child's ears through earphones while he/she sleeps or rests quietly in a bed or chair or in a parent's lap. Small electrodes are taped to teh ears and head to measure the response. The test usually takes about one to one-and-a-half hours.

The ABR is a noninvasive, safe and painless test. It requires that the child remain still and quiet. Some children will lie quietly or sleep, but many will require a light sedation. If sedation is indicated, your child's appointment will be coordinated with the Pediatric Sedation Unit; a pediatrician will evaluate your child prior to the sedation and give medical clearance.

They want to sedate him. I don't blame them. Todd isn't too thrilled with this idea.

1 comment:

  1. I thought the last time you went, they ruled out hearing loss as the reason for his delays. I'm sorry you've had to go through this ordeal so many times. I hope they can finally get the information they want. And after all this work, I sure hope it will be helpful to you guys and Garrett.

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