What is Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA)?
Visual reinforcement audiometry (VRA) is a behavioral test used to assess the hearing of infants and toddlers who are too young to participate in traditional hearing tests. In VRA, the child is conditioned to associate a sound with a visual reward, such as a flashing light or an animated toy.
Once the child has learned to associate the sound with the reward, the audiologist presents a series of sounds at different frequencies and intensities. The child’s responses are then used to determine their hearing thresholds.
Is visual reinforcement audiometry invasive?
Visual reinforcement audiometry is a valuable tool for assessing the hearing of infants and toddlers. It is a relatively easy test to administer, and it is non-invasive. VRA can provide valuable information about a child’s hearing, which can help to ensure that they receive the appropriate treatment if they have hearing loss.
How is visual reinforcement audiometry done?
VRA is typically performed in a soundproof room. The child is seated on their parent’s lap or in a high chair. The audiologist presents a series of sounds through speakers or headphones. The child is rewarded with a visual stimulus, such as a flashing light or an animated toy, whenever they turn their head or make another response that indicates they have heard the sound.
What age is VRA audiology for?
VRA is typically used for children aged 6 months to 3 years. However, it can sometimes be used for children as young as 4 months or as old as 5 years.
What is the difference between conditioned play audiometry and visual reinforcement?
Conditioned play audiometry (CPA) is another behavioral test used to assess the hearing of infants and toddlers. CPA is similar to VRA, but the visual reward is more complex. In CPA, the child is typically presented with a toy that they can manipulate. The toy is activated by sound, so the child learns to associate the sound with the toy. Once the child has learned this association, the audiologist presents a series of sounds at different frequencies and intensities. The child’s responses are then used to determine their hearing thresholds.
The main difference between VRA and CPA is the complexity of the visual reward. VRA uses a simple visual stimulus, such as a flashing light or an animated toy. CPA uses a more complex visual stimulus, such as a toy that the child can manipulate.