Assessment of Vision and Hearing among High-Risk-Neonates

Abstract Background: High- Risk- Neonates tend to have higher levels of neurodevelopmental deficits. These deficits could be minimized with screening and establishing early proper intervention follow up care program to minimize disability while the child is growing. Objective: To find out a few simple and easily elicit able items at three and six months of age that can predict disability outcome in high risk babies. Material and Method: Tertiary level referral Hospital based prospective study was conducted at the “High-Risk- Clinic.” 53 High- Risk Neonates discharged from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of a referral hospital were includes and followed up longitudinally for a period of 9 months. A detailed examination was done with special attention to vision and hearing. Red ball or a low illumination torch was used for visual assessment .Rattle or squeezing toy was used for evaluation of hearing. Results: Assessment of vision and hearing among all High- Risk- Neonates at the age of 6 months found to be normal. Conclusion: Assessment of vision and hearing at 3- 3.5 month age warrant early intervention had better subsequent outcome. These items are easy to elicit, do not require any special kit or elaborate training. Hence these items can be tested even by those working at the primary level.