Below are releases on clinical reports appearing in the October issue of Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

For Release: Monday, September 28, 2009, 12:01 am (ET)

THE PRENATAL VISIT

A prenatal visit is a good way for all expectant families to establish a relationship with their pediatrician. In the revised AAP clinical report, “The Prenatal Visit,” a prenatal visit with a pediatrician is recommended for all expectant families, especially for first pregnancies, single parents, high-risk pregnancies, or parents planning to adopt a child. Pediatricians can establish a medical home for the expected infant, address medical concerns and offer advice, safety tips and suggestions on how parents can become more competent caregivers.

SCREENING FOR INFANT HEARING PROBLEMS

Infants and children who suffer from congenital or acquired hearing loss can face a lifetime of speech and language deficits, poor academic performance and emotional problems. In the clinical report, “Hearing Assessment in Infants and Children: Recommendations Beyond Neonatal Screening,” researchers have developed an algorithm to assist pediatricians determine the course of treatment when a hearing screening indicates hearing loss in children from infants to 18 years of age. Confirmed abnormal hearing test results require ongoing evaluation and intervention by a team of specialists including an audiologist, otolaryngologist, speech-language pathologists and teachers. At least one-third of children with hearing loss will also have a coexisting condition, so they should continue to be monitored for developmental and behavioral disorders and referred for additional evaluation when necessary.

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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 60,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.