Signs and Symptoms

• Hearing loss for more than 4 weeks unless there is sudden unexplained loss or significant impact on child development

Examination

• Otoscopy – check for wax/blockage/foreign bodies
  • syringe if suitable/safe to do or arrange appropriate removal

Patient with any of the following in addition to hearing loss need to be referred to ENT

• Persistent nasal problems
• Sore throats
• Recurrent tonsillitis (unless the hearing loss is experienced separate to tonsillitis episodes) – see guideline

Hearing loss up to 4 weeks may follow upper respiratory tract infections or acute suppurative otitis media. In the absence of red flags watchful waiting is appropriate in these cases.

Referral Criteria

Refer to Paediatric Audiology

Patients with:

• Hearing loss for more than 4 weeks
• Hearing loss with significant impact on child development
• No gross abnormality of tympanic membranes
• The majority of these patients will have glue ear and are appropriate for the paediatric audiology pathway

Refer to ENT

Patients with:

• Abnormal tympanic membranes
• Nose or throat issues in addition to hearing loss
• Sudden unexplained hearing loss (if within 48 hours discuss with ENT SHO on call)

Refer to Speech & Language

• Speech delay and no concerns with hearing

Referral Instructions

Paediatric Audiology referrals

Are made via e-Referral Service:

• Speciality: Children's & Adolescent Services
• Clinic Type: Audiology
• Service: DRSS-South Devon & Torbay-Children's & Adolescent Services- Devon ICB - 15N

ENT referrals

Are made via e-Referral Service:

• Speciality: Children's & Adolescent Services
• Clinic Type: ENT
• Service: DRSS-South Devon & Torbay-Children's & Adolescent Services- Devon ICB - 15N

Refer to SLT

To see how to refer click here

Referral Forms

Torbay Paediatric audiology referral form

Torbay and South Devon seeking advice form

Patient Information

Hearing assessment for your child's information leaflet - - Torbay and South Devon

Evidence

NICE surgical management of otitis media with effusion in children CG60

Pathway Group

This guideline has been signed off on behalf of NHS Devon.

Publication date: January 2018