The auditory brainstem response (ABR) test tells us how the inner ear, called the cochlea, and the brain pathways for hearing are working. You may also hear it called an auditory evoked potential (AEP). The test is used with children or others who cannot complete a typical hearing screening.

What is auditory brainstem response ABR testing?

The Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) test is a helpful tool in determining a child's ability to hear. The test uses a special computer to measure the way the child's hearing nerve responds to different sounds.

How does an ABR hearing test work?

How Is an ABR Done? An audiologist places small earphones in the child's ears and soft electrodes (small sensor stickers) near the ears and on the forehead. Clicking sounds and tones go through the earphones, and electrodes measure how the hearing nerves and brain respond to the sounds.