What does a failed hearing test mean for a 5 year old?

Need eval: If the test was in a physicians office i assume the problem need further evaluation by ent. If audiolgy or ascholl screening could be ear wax , eustachian tube dysfunction , or ear drum infection will need evaluation.

Depends: If the test was done at school it may mean that the child has fluid behind the eardrum decreasing hearing or may have wax in the ear blocking hearing. When children fail such a test we want to see them as the most common reason is one of the above. If all is clear then an ENT or formal hearing test with an audiologist may be needed. Usually not a serious problem. See your doc.

Fluid and wax: Most common reasons for a child to fail a hearing test are ear wax blocking the ear canals and fluid in the middle ear. The first step is to have his/her ears checked by the pediatrician/family physician.

Failed hearing test: Was this hearing test done as a screening at school or your child's doctor or by an audiologist? Sometimes with nasal congestion, fluid fills the middle ear space to reduce hearing ability. This typically self-resolves. If the screening was done at school or dr's i would recommend reck at the drs' office in 2 months. If the screening was done at audiologist then ENT referral should be considered.

While pursuing the: recommended evaluations by a pediatric ENT specialist & a pediatric audiologist, request preferential seating in KG with the better-hearing ear toward the teacher if unilateral hearing loss or close to the teacher if bilateral. Make sure you & the teacher understand the degree of hearing loss & its effect on speech reception thresholds. Request a "Section 504" for classroom modifications.