RESUMO
The practicability of recording auditory nerve and brainstem responses during early childhood is demonstrated. This paper reports our experience with two different electrode locations: ear-canal/ear-lobe and ear-lobe/vertex. The test is performed with a light portable stimulus-generating and response-recording system that can easily be brought into wards and nurseries. In most instances, the presence of responses can be assessed using ear-lobe/vertex recordings. There is seldom any need for sedation or general anaesthesia. Testing personnel can be limited to one trained technician. If responses are not detected, ear-canal/ear-lobe recording may be used to clarify the results. General anaesthesia may then be necessary and the presence of a physician will be required for the placement of the canal electrode.