Identifying Children With Hearing Loss: The Key Role of School Nurses in Evidence-Based Screenings.

Abstract

Undetected hearing loss in school-aged children can impact academic and social functioning and have a life-long impact on the student. The prevalence of hearing loss increases as children reach school age, which highlights the importance of regular, evidence-based hearing screening. This article identifies the barriers to screening that school nurses may face, reviews the two evidence-based methods for childhood hearing screening, and reinforces the need for school nurses to conduct and advocate for regular hearing screening for all students.