Search

To authenticate to the full-text of this article, please visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1744-6155.2009.00219.x Byline: Karen J. Foli (1), Hala Elsisy (2) Keywords: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorders; auditory decoding; auditory perception; central auditory processing disorders; pediatric nursing Abstract: PURPOSE. This discussion presents central auditory processing disorders to pediatric nurses who can influence decisions, educate parents and children, and advocate for children and families in the healthcare and educational settings. CONCLUSIONS. Nurses' understanding of central auditory processing disorders and their signs and symptoms may help prevent misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis in the pediatric population. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. The common indicators of central auditory processing disorders often mimic other childhood disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Testing for central auditory processing disorders is optimized when children are on the appropriate medication at the time of testing. Author Affiliation: (1)School of Nursing (2)Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA Article History: First received January 26, 2009; Final revision received July 31, 2009; Accepted for publication August 19, 2009. Article note: kfoli@purdue.edu or elsisy@purdue.edu, with a copy to the Editor: roxie.foster@UCDenver.edu

A review of forty clinical records of patients evaluated for central auditory processing disorders (CAPD) was conducted to investigate the utility of the screening and assessment protocol implemented in a university clinic setting. Results indicated that the clinic protocol has reduced the number of patients requiring CAPD assessments by more than half. It also showed that screening with the SCAN test positively identified patients with CAPD with a hit rate (sensitivity) of 50%. Overall, about 20% of the patients referred to the clinic were diagnosed with CAPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]