Question
A premature baby failed the hearing screening and was diagnosed with a possible ischemic hypoxic encephalopathy and left temporal occipitoparietal brain infarction. What problems might these conditions cause? How should a seven-month-old premature baby be handled if the hearing screening is not passed?
Answer
Premature babies have a higher chance of failing hearing screenings compared to full-term infants. Usually, the hearing screening of premature babies conducted within a few days after birth may fail due to the prematurity itself or blockage of the ear canal or middle ear infection. Currently, there is no need to be overly concerned. It is recommended to follow the doctor’s advice and temporarily not make a diagnosis of the child’s hearing problem. It is suggested to continue observation and follow the guidance of medical professionals for subsequent examinations and treatment.