Table 2 Summary of the quality evaluation regarding seven criteria for the two groups of studies evaluating the outcomes referral rate and/or loss to follow-up rate from screening step 1
Quality evaluation criteria | Percent of studies fulfilling criteria | |
|---|---|---|
Referral rate | Loss to follow-up rate | |
The community was described from which all infants were drawn. | 95% | 93% |
The sample size was 1000 or more for each group described. | 44% | 60% |
The coverage rate was described and was ≥95%, as recommended by the Joint Committee of Infant Hearing. | 16% | 30% |
The infants included were described with respect to risk factors, NICU admission, well babies, all babies born, etc. | 96% | 95% |
The screening protocol was described and included at least four of the five following factors: infant age at screening, test method, number of screens performed in screening step 1, the test device, and referral criteria (If not automatic) including one or both ears. | 72% | 58% |
The method for collecting data was described (e.g., paper records, centralized database, etc). | 44% | 53% |
The criteria for determining loss to follow-up (or nonattendance) was described. | Not relevant | 35% |