Benefits of hearing screening for tamariki
Hearing screening uncovers undiagnosed ear infections and hearing loss in schoolchildren
Identifying the issue
Routine hearing screening by the Painga Project team uncovered conditions affecting multiple children at a single school. Several students were found to have acute and chronic otitis media (ear infections), heavily discharging ears, possible glue ear, and perforated eardrums. One child summed up the situation, saying, "I just got used to the pain."
Immediate action
With whānau consent, Painga Project arranged for its volunteer GP to assess children on-site during school hours. Several students were prescribed antibiotics immediately, and whānau received follow-up from the Painga Project nurse on managing ear infections and medication use.
A case of undetected hearing loss
One child arrived at the screening unable to follow basic instructions. It quickly became clear that the child was struggling to hear. When the hearing screener adjusted their approach, positioning themselves in front of the child, they responded, revealing that they had been lip-reading. Hearing tests confirmed severe hearing deficits that had gone unnoticed throughout their education.
Next steps
Painga Project is now working to fast-track a comprehensive hearing assessment for this student to ensure they receive the support they need. By identifying and addressing these issues early, Painga Project is helping to prevent long-term impacts on learning and wellbeing.
