Pilot implementation of a computer-based training course on newborn hearing screening and teleaudiology among primary healthcare providers in low resource settings

Objective@#Newborn hearing screening (NHS) in the Philippines has been mandated by law since 2009. However, lack of awareness and knowledge about NHS remains a challenge, especially among healthcare providers. This paper describes the pilot implementation of a computer-based training (CBT) course on NHS and teleaudiology among primary healthcare providers (PHCPs) in rural Philippines. @*Methods@#A four-module web-based training course on newborn hearing screening and teleaudiology in an online learning management system (LMS) was field-tested among PHCPs from eight rural communities in the Philippines. Participants were given four weeks to complete the course. @*Results@#Forty-two PHCPs participated in the CBT. Thirty-four (81%) completed the whole course (mean attrition rate of 4.8% per module) at a mean duration of 10.2 days. Baseline data shows that participants had no NHS training, although the majority (83%) had information and communications technology (ICT) training. Comparison of preand post-test mean scores showed a 24.0% (p<0.001) significant increase in the post-test in all four modules. Passing rates (i.e., score ≥70%) from pre- to post-test increased by 54.6% (range: 38-80% increase). Usability of the CBT was rated high with a mean score of 4.32 out of 5 (range: 4.13 to 4.47), covering all eight parameters. Participants expressed general satisfaction and a positive attitude on CBT to improve knowledge on NHS and teleaudiology. @*Conclusion@#Even in low resource settings where gaps in ICT infrastructure exist, eLearning can be used as an alternative approach to increase awareness and support training of healthcare providers on newborn hearing screening.

Design of a blended learning course for training community healthcare providers on ehealth-enabled newborn hearing screening

Objectives@#We present in this article the design and evaluation of a blended learning approach for training community healthcare providers in performing newborn hearing screening (NHS).@*Methods@#We developed a blended learning course for training community healthcare providers on eHealth-enabled NHS, following Bloom’s revised taxonomy of educational objectives. The training involved three components: computer-based training (CBT), face-to-face (FTF) training, and on-site coaching. We used surveys and post-training interviews following Level 1 Kirkpatrick’s training evaluation model to get initial feedback on the training program. @*Results@#Thirty-one community healthcare providers from five rural health units and a private hearing screening center, with a mean age of 42.2 ± 12.0 years, participated in the pilot. 93.5% of the participants agreed that the program content met stated objectives and was relevant to their practice. The length of the course was perceived to be adequate. Overall satisfaction with the program was rated at 8.5 ± 0.9 (with ten as the highest). The majority expressed that the CBT and FTF course were satisfactory at 93.5% and 100%, respectively. All participants agreed that the course enhanced their knowledge of newborn hearing screening and telehealth. Positive reviews were received from participants on the use of CBT to improve theoretical knowledge before FTF training. Participants declared that FTF training and on-site coaching helped improved NHS skills and implementation. @*Conclusion@#Competent community healthcare providers are critical to strengthening the performance of the health system, and advances in the education and technology sectors offer promising potential in upskilling local healthcare providers. The increasing access of Filipino healthcare providers to improved information and communications technology (ICT) is a significant catalyst for pedagogical innovation, like the use of blended learning in the continuous professional development of health practitioners. As ICTs gradually penetrate the health sector, the challenge we now face is not whether but how we can use innovations in education strategies to benefit healthcare providers.

Evaluation of the design and development of the HeLe newborn hearing screening tele-audiology systems for the Philippines

Introduction@#There is increasing interest in innovation development and management in the Philippines, especially in the last decade. In the advocacy for universal hearing health, the HeLe, “Hearing for Life’’ Research Program was implemented. HeLe developed novel telehealth technologies and field tested a proof-of-concept service delivery model to improve provision of newborn hearing screening and intervention services in the Philippines. @*Objective@#As the HeLe research period concludes, this appraisal was organized to document and assess the health information technology systems of the HeLe. @*Methods@#The evaluation follows the elements of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for evaluation of public health surveillance systems. It centers on the status of the eHealth-based components of the HeLe NHS interventions: HeLe NHS module in the Community Health Information Tracking System (CHITS) electronic medical records system, the Tele-Audiology module in National Telehealth System (NTS), and the HeLe NHS registry. The evaluation is based on interviews of key HeLe research staff and documentation review. @*Results@#The HeLe system has a stable, SQL-Server-based architecture. It is a secure, web-based system with clean separation of back-end database and front-end Web, using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology. Standardization of data via mapping ensures reliable, comparable measures. HeLe demonstrates that NHS data collected by the HeLe NHS device can be sent to, stored in, and extracted from the CHITS electronic medical record system and exchanged across platforms. Where actual patient and NHS data were available, this HeLe system is validated to be efficacious to capture and seamlessly exchange data across various eHealth platforms. These eHealth technologies are described to be at Technology Readiness Level 5, “technologies are validated in a relevant environment”. The HeLe program, however, needs to address completeness in documentation as a standard practice, if only to ensure better management of risks introduced by novel eHealth systems in patient care. The CDC public health surveillance checklist used for this assessment is useful in identifying gaps in research management for the HeLe inventors. It is recommended to be incorporated to be standard and implemented early in the next iteration of the HeLe research. @*Conclusions@#Overall, the HeLe technologies, in this initial stage of research, have achieved the purpose for which they were developed. As a novel technologybased NHS system, HeLe is a potentially powerful tool to assist in monitoring newborn hearing disease caseloads by community-based primary care clinics, NHS facilities, and hospitals that provide definitive medical services. As other health systems strengthening reforms take root in the Philippines, secure exchange of data electronically across the country would depend on sound technologies, including those used in hearing health. This paper can be instructive to the emerging research community in the eHealth and biomedical development space especially in resource-challenged settings. Likewise, lessons can reinforce institutional support from research agencies, clinicians, and state/county or subnational health departments for policy and resource mobilization to better manage those identified with congenital hearing loss.

A comparison of the human voice (“Baah”) test and the automated auditory brainstem response in detecting neonates with hearing loss in a community setting

Objective@#To assess the usage of the “Baah” Test compared to the AABR (Automated Auditory Brainstem Response) in detecting hearing loss of neonates in the community setting. @*Methods@#This is a retrospective cross-sectional study. The targeted sample population are infants less than a month old who underwent screening at a testing facility in Malolos, Bulacan spanning the years 2011 and 2012. @*Results@#A total of 201 infants were included in the study, with a mean age of 10.77 days with a standard deviation of 7.79. The ratio of males to females was almost equal at 1:1.01. For infants who passed hearing screening on at least one ear, 96% (193 infants) correlated with the results of “Baah” testing. For those with bilateral refer results on AABR, 4 out of the 6 correlated with the “Baah” Test. @*Conclusion@#There is potential in using the “Baah” Test as a tool for hearing loss assessment of infants in situations wherein the usual hearing screening tests are inaccessible. It makes use of little resources, and though it does have its limitations in assessing for unilateral hearing loss (as the test cannot test ears in isolation), it would be able to identify infants likely to have bilateral hearing loss.

Accuracy and use of the reflexive behavioral (“Baah”) test and risk factor questionnaire for hearing screening in infants six months old and below

Objective@#To determine the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values, and use of the Reflexive Behavioral “Baah” Test and NHSRC Level 1 and Level 2 Questionnaires in detecting hearing impairment in rural health communities. @*Methods@#This was a prospective cross-sectional study conducted at the rural health unit of five municipalities. Infants less than six months old were screened for hearing impairments using the OAE device (standard), the Reflexive Behavioral “Baah” test, and the NHSRC Level 1 and Level 2 Questionnaires. The “Baah” test and the filling out of the NHSRC Level 1 and 2 Questionnaires were done by trained health workers while OAE was done by an audiologist. @*Results@#A total of 103 babies, with a mean age of 41.9 days at the time of testing and a male to female ratio of 1.02:1 (52 males and 51 females) were tested. A hearing impairment prevalence of 4.9% (5 out of 103) was noted. The “Baah” test showed to have a sensitivity of 60%, specificity of 97.96% and an accuracy rate of 96.12%. The NHSRC Level 1 and Level 2 Questionnaires showed sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy rate of 40%, 67.35% and 66.02%, respectively for the former and 40%, 85.71% and 83.50%, respectively for the latter. Analysis of the complimentary use of the NHSRC Level 1 and Level 2 Questionnaires with the “Baah” test also showed no significant improvement to using the “Baah” test as a stand-alone screening tool with sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 60%, 67.35% and 66.99%, respectively for the “Baah” test and Level 1 Questionnaire, and 60%, 83.67% and 82.52%, respectively for the “Baah” test and Level 2 Questionnaire. @*Conclusion@#The Reflexive Behavioral “Baah” test is a potentially accurate, sensitive, specific, and acceptable standalone hearing screening test to identify infants with higher risk of hearing impairment in the rural health community setting. On the other hand, the use of the NHSRC Questionnaires as a stand-alone or complementary tool for “Baah” is unnecessary as it results to more false positive and false negative results.

Implementation of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening in the Philippines: A survey of registered newborn hearing centers

Background@#Universal newborn hearing screening is mandated in the Philippines through the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening and Intervention Act of 2009 (RA 9709). Newborn hearing screening (NBHS) centers are required to perform screening tests, compile and submit data on screened newborns, and advise parents on the subsequent steps after NBHS.@*Objective@#The study aimed to conduct a survey of the implementation of the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening and Intervention Program (UNHSIP) in the different regions of the country; and assess the information technology (IT) capabilities of hearing centers.@*Methods@#Fifty-one NBHS centers across twelve regions were surveyed through on-site inspections in 2016. Data was gathered on the centers’ testing capability, staffing, access to specialists, use of local protocols, connectivity, and IT capabilities. @*Results@#All surveyed centers followed the recommended protocols of the Manual of Operations of the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening and Intervention Act of 2009 (RA 9709). Among the 12 regions visited, only five (41.67%) had Category C centers with confirmatory testing and early amplification services as recommended. Majority of facilities (96.1%) were staffed by trained and certified personnel. A small percentage had access to subspecialists such as clinical audiologists (39.2%) and speech-language pathologists (23.5%). All facilities had computer access, but only 58.8% had internet access. Majority (94.1%) of the centers visited were not using the recommended data submission methods, specifically the use of registry cards and the online registry. Only 27.5% of centers had data on newborns who underwent confirmatory testing or early intervention. @*Conclusion@#Facilities were found to be compliant to NBHS screening protocols and majority complied with certification requirements for staff; but were found to be non-compliant with use of registry cards or the online registry. Majority of centers were able to contact the parents of neonates who did not pass newborn screening, but had no system to track outcomes. Lack of confirmatory and early intervention services in identified areas emphasize the need for development of regional centers. It is recommended that measures to improve the utilization of the online registry are taken.

Screening for hearing health and associated factors among students from 4 universities in Taiyuan / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To investigate the current situation of hearing health among college students and associated factors, and to provide a basis for universities and relevant departments to carry out hearing health work.@*Methods@#By using stratified random sampling method, 1306 students from 4 universities in Taiyuan were screened for hearing loss and were investigated with a questionnaire from March to November 2021. Data were analyzed by using the SPSS 19.0 statistical.@*Results@#The detection rate of hearing loss was 31.70%. The majority (51.91%) failed to pass the 4 000 Hz hearing screening. The total awareness rate of hearing problems was 58.96%. Logistic regression analysis showed that the total daily usage time of earphones >4 h/d, the duration of using earphones >1 h/time were positively correlated with positive screening for hearing loss among college students( OR=1.23, 1.14, P < 0.01), and good awareness of hearing health care and highest education of parents were negatively correlated with positive screening for hearing loss among coollege students( OR =0.54, 0.76, 0.37, P <0.05).@*Conclusion@#The awareness of hearing health care among college students is low. Universities and relevant departments should take targeted measures to provide the best hearing health care services.

Tamizaje auditivo universal neonatal en Hospital Clínico La Florida Dra. Eloísa Díaz Insunza: Experiencia 2015-2021 / Universal newborn hearing screening at Hospital Clínico La Florida Dra. Eloísa Díaz Insunza: Experience 2015-2021

Introducción: La hipoacusia congénita es una patología frecuente entre los recién nacidos con gran impacto en su calidad de vida si no es diagnosticada y tratada precozmente. Para su pesquisa, se recomienda, internacionalmente, el tamizaje auditivo universal neonatal (TAUN), que desde 2014 se aplica en el Hospital Clínico La Florida Dra. Eloísa Díaz Insunza (HLF). Objetivo: Describir la experiencia del programa de TAUN del Servicio de Otorrinolaringología HLF. Material y Método: Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo. Se incluyó a todos los recién nacidos vivos (RNV) del establecimiento entre 2015 y 2021, evaluados de acuerdo con el protocolo del programa. Resultados: Fueron evaluados 17.804 RNV. Se obtuvo una cobertura de 97,1% y tasa de referencia de 0,98%. Se confirmaron a 21 pacientes con hipoacusia sensorioneural (HSN), obteniéndose una tasa de HSN de 1,5 cada 1.000 RNV. Conclusión: La tasa de incidencia de HSN congénita fue similar a la estimada a nivel mundial. El programa de TAUN HLF cumple con estándares internacionales en cuanto a cobertura, tiempo de evaluación del tamizaje y tasa de referencia. El trabajo multidisciplinario, mejoría de tecnología y registro adecuado de pacientes, son las principales fortalezas. La dificultad de seguimiento durante horario inhábil y presencia de sólo un profesional con dedicación exclusiva, son aspectos a perfeccionar.

Introduction: Congenital hearing loss is a frequent pathology among newborns with great impact on their quality of life if it is not diagnosed and treated early. The Joint Committee on Infant Hearing recommends universal newborn hearing screening (UNHS) and has been applied at the Hospital Clínico La Florida Dra. Eloísa Díaz Insunza (HLF) since 2014. Aim: To describe the experience of UNHS program at the Otolaryngology Service of the HLF. Material and Method: Descriptive, retrospective study, including all newborns of the HLF between 2015 and 2021. They were evaluated according to the protocol proposed in the program. Results: 17804 newborns were evaluated. Coverage of 97,1% and a referral rate of 0,98% were obtained. Twenty-one patients with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) were confirmed, obtaining a SNHL rate of 1.5 per 1000 live births. Conclusion: The incidence rate of congenital SNHL is similar to that estimated worldwide. The UNHS program in HLF complies with international standards in terms of coverage, timing and referral rates. Multidisciplinary work, improved technology and adequate patient registration are the main strengths of the program. The difficulty of follow-ups during the weekends and the presence of only one full-time professional are aspects that can be improved.

Evaluation of the newborn hearing screening program in the University of Santo Tomas Hospital based on the joint committee on infant hearing 2019 position statement on quality indicators for screening and confirmation of hearing loss

Objective@#To evaluate the newborn hearing screening program in the University of Santo Tomas Hospital based on the quality indicators set by the Joint Committee on Infant Hearing (JCIH) 2019 position statement.@*Methods@#Design: Cross-sectional study Setting: Tertiary Private Training Hospital Participants: All newborns delivered in 2019 at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Hospital were considered for inclusion@*Results@#The UST Hospital had 778 newborns in 2019, of which 687 (88.3%) completed newborn hearing screening by 1 month of age. There were 81 (10.4%) who failed initial hospitalbased screening and required outpatient re-screening while 11 (1.4%) of those who failed initial screening also failed subsequent rescreening. Forty-five (5.7%) newborns failed initial screening and subsequently passed re-screening. None of the eleven (0/11) patients completed comprehensive audiologic evaluation thus, patients necessitating referral for intervention were not identified. There were a total of 67 (8.6%) dropouts throughout the hearing evaluation process. Fifteen (15) infants were not screened due to unavailability of trained personnel at time of referral, four (4) infants were advised third screening while two (2) were advised observation instead of proceeding to confirmatory test.@*Conclusion@#The University of Santo Tomas Hospital newborn hearing screening program has yet to reach the quality indicators set by the Joint Committee on Infant Hearing 2019 for screening and confirmation of hearing loss. Among identified areas for improvement are the availability of trained personnel, insufficient means to ensure compliance, reluctance to pursue further testing and practices among healthcare providers.

Pesquisaje auditivo universal en recién nacidos de provincia Guantánamo, 2020-2021 / Triagem auditiva universal em recém-nascidos na província de Guantánamo, 2020-2021 / Universal newborn hearing screening in Guantanamo province, 2020-2021

RESUMEN Introducción: El pesquisaje auditivo neonatal es la evaluación que permite detectar o sospechar pérdidas auditivas, abordándose mediante un plan de habilitación o rehabilitación. Objetivo: Determinar la cobertura del pesquisaje auditivo universal en la provincia de Guantánamo, en el contexto epidemiológico de la COVID-19, durante el periodo marzo 2020 a marzo 2021. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y de corte transversal. El universo estuvo constituido por 5 999 recién nacidos vivos. Las variables estudiadas fueron: sexo, recién nacidos con y sin factores de riesgo, y las emisiones otoacústicas, cuyos resultados permitieron la evaluación de cobertura. Se definió el indicador estándar (95 %) y el tiempo en que se realizó las primeras emisiones otoacústicas. Se estableció como indicador el porcentaje de recién nacidos pesquisados antes de un mes de vida. Resultados: De los 5 999 nacimientos, el 51,7 % correspondió al sexo masculino y el 48,3 perteneció al sexo femenino. Al 100 % de los recién nacidos sin factores de riesgo (5 838) se les realizó la primera exploración, mientras que a aquellos con factores de riesgo (151) no se les pudo realizar al 0,2 % (10). La pesquisa de los recién nacidos sin factores ocurrió entre 1 y 3 días de nacidos. Nunca se realizaron pesquisas después de los 30 días de nacido en los que presentaron factores de riesgo. La cobertura fue de 99,8 % y el índice de referencia de 0,2 %. Conclusiones: El Programa de Pesquisaje Auditivo Universal en la provincia de Guantánamo en el contexto de la COVID-19 muestra cumplimiento en el indicador de cobertura.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Universal neonatal hearing screening is a test that enables to identify or suspect hearing loss, performed via habilitation or rehabilitation plan. Objective: Determine the coverage of universal hearing screening in the epidemiological context of COVID-19 in Guantánamo province, during the period of march 2020 to march 2021. Method: A descriptive, retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out. A total of 5 999 newborns (as Universe) were involved in the study. Variables used were as follow: sex, newborns with or without risk factors, and otoacoustic emissions, which outcomes allowed for the evaluation of universal hearing screening coverage. The standard indicator (95%) and the time at which the first otoacoustic emissions were made were defined. The percentage of newborns detected before one month of life was established as indicator. Results: The 51.1% of the 5 999 newborns were male and 48.3% were female. The 100% of newborns (5 838) without risk factors underwent to the first examination, meanwhile, among those with risk factors (151 newborns) 0.2% (10) could not be tested. Screening of newborns without factors occurred between 1 and 3 days after birth. Screening was never performed after 30 days of birth in those who presented risk factors. Coverage was 99.8% and the reference rate was 0.2%. Conclusions: Universal Hearing Screening Program application in the context of COVID-19 pandemic in Guantanamo province shows a fulfillment in the coverage indicator.

RESUMO Introdução: A triagem auditiva neonatal é a avaliação para detectar ou suspeitar de perda auditiva, que é abordada por um plano de habilitação ou reabilitação. Objetivo: Determinar a cobertura da triagem auditiva universal na província de Guantánamo, no contexto epidemiológico da COVID-19, durante o período de março de 2020 a março de 2021. Método: Foi realizado um estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, transversal. O universo consistia de 5 999 recém-nascidos vivos. As variáveis estudadas foram: sexo, recém-nascidos com e sem fatores de risco, e emissões otoacústicas, cujos resultados permitiram a avaliação da cobertura. O indicador padrão (95%) e o momento em que as primeiras emissões otoacústicas foram feitas foram definidos. O indicador foi definido como a porcentagem de recém-nascidos examinados antes de um mês de idade. Resultados: Dos 5 999 nascimentos, 51,7% eram homens e 48,3% eram mulheres. 100% dos bebês sem fatores de risco (5.838) foram examinados pela primeira vez, enquanto aqueles com fatores de risco (151) não puderam ser rastreados por 0,2% (10). A triagem de recém-nascidos sem fatores de risco ocorreu entre 1 e 3 dias após o nascimento. A triagem nunca foi realizada após 30 dias de nascimento naqueles com fatores de risco. A cobertura foi de 99,8% e a taxa de base foi de 0,2%. Conclusões: O Programa Universal de Triagem Auditiva na província de Guantánamo no contexto da COVID-19 mostra a conformidade com o indicador de cobertura.

Eficacia del «Programa de tamizaje auditivo neonatal universal¼ de la Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social en la detección de sordera en niñas y niños, entre 2016 y 2018 / Effectiveness of «Universal Newborn Hearing Screening program¼ of Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social, in detecting deafness in children, from 2016 to 2018

Resumen Introducción: el tamizaje auditivo es un método de detección y su propósito es intervenir de forma temprana para reducir las consecuencias negativas de una eventual afección auditiva en el desarrollo integral del infante. Costa Rica ha implementado en el sistema de salud público un programa de tamizaje auditivo neonatal universal, donde se examina todo niño o niña antes del primer mes de vida. Aunque se han percibido múltiples beneficios, es importante demostrar con evidencia científica si cumple sus objetivos. Metodología: se analizó la eficacia del «Programa de tamizaje auditivo neonatal universal» (TANU) de la Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, a partir de la información registrada de 37 656 infantes evaluados entre los años 2016 y 2018, mediante el contraste empírico con las técnicas descriptivas de distribución de frecuencias de variables, y las pruebas inferenciales chi cuadrado y análisis de varianza (ANOVA). Resultados: en cuanto a la edad al momento del examen, el 71 % de la muestra tenía entre 0 y 3 días. Su desempeño a través del tiempo y la extensión a distintos centros de salud ha sido satisfactorio, así mismo, la cantidad de infantes valorados ha sido hasta del 98 % de la población. Conclusiones: el programa TANU es eficaz en la mayoría de aspectos analizados, destaca la identificación de factores de riesgo y la detección temprana de afecciones auditivas, sin embargo, se proponen mejoras en relación con el manejo de la información.

Abstract Introduction: Hearing screening is a detection method, its objective is to provide an early intervention that allows reducing the negative consequences of an eventual hearing impairment, in the integral development of the infant. Costa Rica has implemented a universal neonatal hearing screening program in the public health system, where the hearing of every child born in the country is examined before the first month of life. Although multiple benefits have been perceived, it is important to demonstrate with scientific evidence if it accomplishes its objectives. Methodology: the effectiveness of the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program in Costa Rica was analyzed, based on the information recorded from 37,656 children evaluated since 2016 to 2018, through empirical contrast using both descriptive techniques: frequency distribution of variables, as well as the use of inferential tests: chi square and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: 71 % of the sample was between 0 and 3 days old at the moment of being examined. Its performance over time and extension to different health centers has been satisfactory, likewise, the number of infants evaluated has been up to 98 % of the population. Conclusions: the TANU program is effective in most of the aspects analyzed, the identification of risk factors and the early detection of hearing disorders are outstanding, however, improvements are proposed in relation to the handling of information.

Does universal newborn hearing screening impact the timing of deafness treatment?

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the impact of the Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening (UNHS) on the age at diagnosis, beginning of treatment, and first cochlear implant surgery. Methods: A retrospective cohort study with children up to 12 years old with bilateral hearing loss were divided into two groups: patients who underwent UNHS and the ones who didn't. The groups were compared according to their age at the beginning of the evaluation at a specialized center, at the beginning of the intervention, and, for the ones who had indication, at the cochlear implant surgery. The group who underwent UNHS was divided between the ones who passed the screening test and the ones who didn't. They were compared according to their ages at the same moments as the first two groups. Results: 135 patients were included. The median age at the first appointment in a specialized center was 1.42 (0.50 and 2.50) years, at the beginning of treatment 2.00 (1.00 and 3.52) years, and the cochlear implant surgery 2.83 (1.83 and 4.66) years. Children who underwent UNHS were younger than those who didn't, at the three evaluated moments (p < 0.001). In a subanalysis, children who passed the UNHS but were later diagnosed with hearing loss reached the first appointment with a specialist and started treatment older than those who failed the tests. Conclusion: Performing UNHS interfered with the timing of deafness diagnosis and treatment. However, children who passed the screening but were later diagnosed with hearing loss were the category with the most important delay.

Implementation of newborn hearing screening in Rizal, Philippines, and Northern California: Lessons learned

Objective@#The universal newborn hearing screening program has been implemented in the Philippines for the past ten years. However, screening rates in the country are still low. The current study aimed to describe the universal newborn hearing screening program (UNHSP) delivery system in Rizal, Philippines, and Northern California. @*Methods@#The study utilized a case study research design using data triangulation of FGD, KII, and document review to characterize and compare the implementation of the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program in Rizal Province and Northern California. @*Results@#Several differences were found in the protocols for newborn hearing screening in Rizal, Philippines, and Northern California, including centralization of the program, availability of surveillance data, screening protocols, and tracking system. @*Conclusion@#There is an immense need to disseminate universal newborn hearing screening among healthcare practitioners and create a system to monitor and evaluate real-time data.

Outcomes of online adaptation of the universal newborn hearing screening certification

Objective@#An adaptation of the newborn hearing screening personnel certification course to an online platform started development in June 2020. It was then implemented in July 2020. The current study aimed to evaluate the initial implementation of the online adaptation of the universal newborn hearing screening certification course among participants. @*Methods@#Through a concurrent mixed-methods research design, the study triangulated program outcomes, course evaluation, and key informant interviews of participants from July to November 2020 to evaluate the initial implementation of the course. @*Results@#The certification course participants had an overall positive experience with the initial implementation of the online adaptation. Only a minority of participants expressed their dissatisfaction with the course evaluation form. Moreover, the key informant interviews showed more detailed areas of improvement. @*Conclusion@#Despite the course's high ratings and administrative strengths, the use and features of Canvas as a learning management system were needed for participants to maximize the course. Furthermore, improvements in the presentation of the lectures and increasing the interactivity and engagement of the learning materials were recommendations in the refinement of the online course.

Analysis of genetic carrier of neonatal deafness in Hainan / 中国热带医学

@#Abstract: Objective　To explore the carrying status of four common deafness genes and mutations on 10 loci in newborns in Hainan, and to analyze the molecular epidemiological characteristics of deafness genes and their loci, so as to provide scientific basis for formulating neonatal deafness gene screening strategy and promoting children's hearing health in Hainan. Methods　Newborns born in Hainan from January 2020 to December 2021 were selected as the research objects. The demographic characteristics of the research objects were collected. At the same time, the plantar blood of newborns was collected, and multiplex PCR amplification and directed hybridization combined with high-throughput sequencing technology were applied to detect 10 mutation loci on 4 common deafness genes. T-test or chi square test was used to process the data. Results　A total of 7 124 newborns were included in the study through informed consent, 219 cases of deafness gene mutation were detected with the detection rate of deafness gene of 3.07%. The detection rates of GJB2, SLC26A4, MT-RNR1 and GJB3 were 1.56% (111/7 124), 1.18% (84/7 124), 0.21% (15/7 124) and 0.11% (8/7 124) respectively. Among the 10 loci of the four genes, the positive detection rate of c.235delC locus of GJB2 was the highest, which was 1.38% (98/7 124), followed by c.919-2A>G of SLC26A4 (0.87%, 62/7 124); 2.63% (113/4 289) of the newborns who passed the preliminary hearing screening still carried the deafness gene; in terms of gene type, the detection rate of GJB2 gene in newborns who failed the hearing screening was higher than that in newborns who passed the hearing screening [2.23% (63/7 124) vs 1.12% (48/7 124)，P<0.01]; in terms of gene loci, the detection rate of c.235delC locus in newborns who failed hearing screening was higher than that in newborns who passed hearing screening [2.09% (59/7 124) vs 0.91% (39/7 124)，P<0.01]. Conclusion　The most common deafness genes types in Hainan were GJB2 and SLC26A4; The most common gene mutation sites were c.235delC and c.919-2A>G; 2.63% of the newborns who passed the preliminary hearing screening still carried the deafness gene, among which the high-risk newborns with MT-RNR1 and GJB3 genes were found. Therefore, hearing screening should be combined with deafness gene screening to improve the detection rate of children at high risk of hearing loss.

Monitoramento audiológico de lactentes em diferentes programas de triagem auditiva neonatal: uma revisão sistemática / Audiological monitoring of infants in different newborn hearing screening programs: a systematic review

RESUMO Objetivos Buscar na literatura informações quanto aos aspectos que guiam o monitoramento audiológico infantil, descrevendo os procedimentos utilizados, a idade em que são realizados, qual a população monitorada e os países que mais estudam sobre o assunto. Além de discutir a importância dessa etapa e a eficácia desses aspectos. Estratégia de pesquisa A revisão foi conduzida com base nas recomendações PRISMA e registrada na plataforma PROSPERO. Os estudos foram pesquisados nas bases de dados eletrônicas Medline (Pubmed), Web of Science e SciELO, com os descritores hearing, neonatal screening e follow up. Critérios de seleção Foram incluídos estudos que descrevessem o monitoramento audiológico. Não foram empregados filtros do ano de publicação, tampouco para os idiomas dos mesmos. Resultados Foram encontrados 432 artigos e 21 foram incluídos nesse estudo, sendo que a maioria foi produzida em países desenvolvidos. O Potencial Evocado Auditivo de Tronco Encefálico e a Avaliação Comportamental foram os procedimentos mais utilizados. Quanto a idade e população, a maioria realiza o monitoramento até os três anos e em crianças com Indicadores para a Deficiência Auditiva. Conclusão Os estudos demonstraram que não há padrão entre os protocolos para a realização do monitoramento audiológico, porém foi possível identificar que as pesquisas apresentam uma maior concordância quanto a idade em que tal monitoramento acontece e qual a população que deve ser monitorada. Entretanto, embora haja discordâncias, os métodos de avaliação utilizados pelos estudos são eficazes para a detecção de perdas auditiva de caráter leve, progressivo e/ou tardio, além dos casos de falso negativo.

ABSTRACT Purpose To search the literature for guidelines on infant's audiological monitoring, most commonly used procedures, the age at which they are performed, which population should be monitored and the countries that study the subject the most. Besides, the importance and effectiveness of these measures will be discussed. Research strategy The review was conducted based on the PRISMA recommendations, registered on the PROSPERO platform. The studies were searched for in the electronic databases Medline (Pubmed), Web of Science and SciELO, using the descriptors hearing, neonatal screening and follow up. Selection criteria studies reporting the audiological monitoring were included. No filters on year and language of publication were used. Results A total of 432 articles were found and 21 were included in this study, mostly produced in developed countries. The Auditory Brainstem Response and the Behavioral Assessment were the most frequently used procedures. As to age and population, most infants are subjected to audiological monitoring up to three years of age and have Risk Factors for Hearing Loss in their clinical history. Conclusion The studies pointed that there is no standard among the protocols for performing audiological monitoring, but it was possible to identify agreement as to the age at which such monitoring takes place and which population should be monitored. However, although there is some disagreement, the assessment methods used in the studies are effective in detecting mild, progressive and/or late hearing loss, in addition to false negative cases.

Cochleopalpebral reflex: sensitivity and specificity in the auditory screening of newborns discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit / Reflejo cocleopalpebral: sensibilidad y especificidad en el tamiz auditivo de recién nacidos egresados de una unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales

Abstract Background: The sensitivity and specificity of the clinical audiological evaluation in newborns are debatable compared to neurophysiological methods of a hearing evaluation. This study aimed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the cochleopalpebral reflex as a clinical test for hearing screening in newborns. Methods: A case-control study was designed. Newborns discharged from a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) were included. Brainstem evoked auditory potentials were recorded. A wooden rattle was used to explore the cochleopalpebral reflex. The sensitivity and specificity of the cochleopalpebral reflex were calculated. Continuous data were analyzed with Student's t-test, with statistically significant p-values < 0.05. Results: We selected 450 newborns who were divided into two groups: group A, with bilateral sensory neural hearing loss (n = 150), and group B, with normal hearing (n = 300). Group A showed a significantly lower gestation age at birth (p = 0.005) compared to group B (32.5 ± 2.6 vs. 34.4 ± 3.5 weeks). In group A, the cochleopalpebral reflex's sensitivity was 80% using the wooden rattle. In group B, the specificity was 98%. Conclusions: The NICU discharged newborns' clinical hearing evaluation is not enough to exclude hearing loss. Although it may be the only diagnostic tool for hearing loss in some settings, its limitations should be considered.

Resumen Introducción: La sensibilidad y la especificidad de la evaluación audiológica clínica en recién nacidos son cuestionables en comparación con los métodos neurofisiológicos de evaluación auditiva. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la sensibilidad y la especificidad del reflejo cocleopalpebral como prueba clínica de tamizaje auditivo en recién nacidos. Métodos: Se diseñó un estudio de casos y controles en el que se incluyeron recién nacidos egresados de una unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales (UCIN). Se les efectuaron potenciales auditivos evocados de tallo cerebral. Para la exploración del reflejo cocleopalpebral se utilizó una matraca de madera. Se calcularon la sensibilidad y la especificidad del reflejo cocleopalpebral. Los datos continuos se analizaron con la prueba t de Student y se consideraron estadísticamente significativos los valores de p < 0.05. Resultados: Se seleccionaron 450 recién nacidos y se dividieron en dos grupos: el grupo A (n = 150) con hipoacusia sensorineural y el grupo B (n = 300) con audición normal. El grupo A mostró una diferencia significativa (p = 0.005) en cuanto a la edad de gestación al nacer en comparación con el grupo B (32.5 ± 2.6 vs. 34.4 ± 3.5 semanas). En el grupo A, la sensibilidad del reflejo cocleopalpebral fue del 80% utilizando la matraca de madera. En el grupo B se encontró una especificidad del 98%. Conclusiones: La evaluación del reflejo cocleopalpebral como prueba clínica de tamizaje auditivo en una población de recién nacidos egresados de una UCIN no es suficiente para descartar la pérdida de la audición. Aunque puede ser la única herramienta de diagnóstico para evaluar la pérdida de la audición en algunos casos, es importante considerar sus limitaciones.

Procedimiento para el pesquisaje auditivo universal en la población neonatal, Cuba, 2018 / A Procedure for Universal Hearing Screening in the Neonatal Population, Cuba, 2018

Introducción: El pesquisaje auditivo neonatal es una de las técnicas más utilizadas para realizar el diagnóstico precoz y oportuno de las pérdidas auditivas que llevan a una discapacidad. Objetivo: Diseñar el procedimiento para la pesquisa auditiva universal en la población neonatal cubana. Métodos: Estudio de desarrollo tecnológico, realizado de enero a diciembre de 2017. Se seleccionaron expertos mediante la autoevaluación y el coeficiente de competencia de Kappa, quienes participaron en el diseño a través de la técnica de grupos nominales, para el análisis de los problemas que limitan el pesquisaje auditivo universal y las potencialidades científicas, organizativas y funcionales de la red de servicios de atención a los desórdenes auditivos. Con posterioridad valoraron el procedimiento de forma individual y se aplicó la técnica de grupos nominales para lograr consenso. La revisión bibliográfica permitió valorar los aciertos y dificultades de otros procedimientos establecidos en otros contextos. Resultados: Se obtuvo como resultado el procedimiento para el pesquisaje auditivo universal, estructurado en tres componentes: pesquisaje, diagnóstico y rehabilitación. Conclusiones: El procedimiento diseñado para la detección universal precoz neonatal de las pérdidas auditivas en la población neonatal cubana estandariza los procesos de prestación de servicios de salud, mediante la gestión integral para prevenir y controlar, en forma oportuna, los eventos que afectan la salud auditiva(AU)

Introduction: Neonatal hearing screening is one of the most widely used techniques for early and timely diagnosis of hearing losses that lead to disability. Objective: To design the procedure for universal hearing screening in the Cuban neonatal population. Methods: Technological development study carried out from January to December 2017. Experts were selected through self-evaluation and the Kappa competence coefficient. The experts participated in the design through the nominal groups technique, in view of the analysis of the problems limiting universal hearing screening and the scientific, organizational and functional potentialities of the healthcare network for hearing disorders. Subsequently, they assessed the procedure individually and the nominal groups technique was applied to achieve consensus. The bibliographic review allowed to assess the accomplishments and difficulties of other procedures established in other settings. Results: The procedure for universal hearing screening was obtained as a result, structured in three components: screening, diagnosis and rehabilitation. Conclusions: The procedure designed for universal early neonatal screening of hearing loss in the Cuban neonatal population standardizes the processes of providing healthcare, through comprehensive management to prevent and control, timely, events that affect hearing-related health(AU)

Development and pilot implementation of the online certification of universal newborn hearing screening personnel

@#<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Objective.</strong> The current paper aimed to discuss developing the online newborn hearing screening certification course and revisions made from pre-pandemic face-to-face strategies to the online implementation in response to COVID-19 limitations. Furthermore, it aimed to create recommendations for the refinement of the course.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Methods.</strong> The development of the adaptation consisted of document review, focus group discussions among program faculty before and after implementation, which covered the demand for the certification course, opportunities for adaptation, situational limitations, and online implementation advantages and concerns. In addition, a cost-benefit analysis of the online course was done.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Results.</strong> The certification course was developed within a month and retained the same learning objectives going into an online implementation. One significant change was the addition of a local experience module which allowed for the participation of regional newborn hearing screening coordinators. More resources were required from both instructors and learners to implement successfully. Due to the asynchronous nature of the online course, the evaluation scheme was adapted accordingly. However, teaching strategies were limited. The pricing of the course was also not optimal.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Conclusion.</strong> Although there were merits in adapting the certification course to the online learning platform, there were areas for refinement. These were the alignment of all course modules to learning objectives, the addition of varied teaching methods, and the revision of pricing for the course.</p>

Maternal diabetes: A potential risk factor of congenital hearing loss

@#Objective. The purpose of this study is to identify the incidence rate of 'refer' result in neonates born to diabetic mothers and to determine the association of maternal diabetes and the initial 'refer' result. Methods. This was a retrospective cross-sectional study which included neonates who had hearing screening test using transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions test (TEOAE) on both ears at the Philippine General Hospital Ear unit during three weeks. We obtained the demographic characteristics, presence/absence of maternal diabetes, and OAE results. Results. Among the 150 neonates, ten were born to diabetic mothers, with an age range of 2-8 days old. Forty percent of neonates of diabetic mothers had an initial 'refer' result compared with 7.9% of nondiabetic mothers' neonates. After logistic regression analysis, there is a significant association between maternal diabetes and initial 'refer' result in OAE with a p-value <0.05. If the mother is diagnosed with diabetes (gestational/pre-gestational), the odds of having an initial 'refer' result in the hearing screening is 2x higher. The odds can range from 2-43 times. Conclusion. The incidence rate of an initial 'refer' result in neonates of diabetic mothers is 40%. There is a significant association between maternal diabetes and the initial 'refer' result in the OAE test.