Can a hearing test come back normal even if they have a hearing loss in a 16 month old?

Unlikely: Hearing tests vary in their sensitivity and with the training of the person performing the test.In general, it is easier for a kid to underperform and falsly fail than it is to pass when your hearing is poor. The quality of a kids listening can be poor and still pass.Tests done around birth may not reflect the quality of hearing 6 mo or a year later.If suspicious, retesting is worthwhile.

Type of test: The answer really depends on what time of testing was done on your 16 month old. Can you elaborate on the nature of the tests?

Depends on the test: In a 16 month old child, abr (auditory brainstem response) or oae (otoacoustic emissions) are fairly accurate and reliable predictors of hearing loss in infants who are too young to respond to behavioral testing. For cooperative infants at 16 months, visual reinforcement audiometry (vra) may also be performed. Pediatric audiologists may be able to address your concerns.