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Scientific Oral Presentation

Care Equity, Quality, and Safety

Timeliness of Audiologic Assessment Following Bacterial Meningitis and Hearing Outcomes in Pediatric Patients

Monday, October 19, 2026
8:24 AM - 8:30 AM PT
Location: 406A
Disclosure(s):
Dallin B. Badal, BS:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Albert H. Park, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Introduction: Sensorineural hearing loss is a common sequela of bacterial meningitis. Our objective is to determine how often pediatric bacterial meningitis patients receive auditory evaluation within a month after hospital discharge and to identify practical ways to improve this outcome.

Methods: Children (0–18 years) diagnosed with bacterial meningitis at a tertiary pediatric center from 2017 to 2023 were confirmed with a retrospective chart review. Optimal audiometric testing was defined as being completed within one month of hospital discharge. Timing of audiometric testing was measured. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other parameters were determined to assess any relationship to timely audiologic testing.

Results: Of the 176 patients included in the study, 68% of patients received timely audiologic testing within one month of discharge. Eight-one percent of patients received a brain MRI, and 37% of patients received a brain and temporal bone (TB) MRI. Enhancement on MRI, especially brain and TB MRI scans with contrast, was associated with higher rates of proper audiometric testing (86% for brain MRI, 97% for brain and TB MRI). Ventricular drain placement during the course of treatment showed the strongest negative correlation with proper audiometric testing (33% properly tested). 23 children (17%) developed new sensorineural hearing loss following bacterial meningitis infection.

Conclusions: Data from the present study raise concern for audiologic outcomes of bacterial meningitis patients. Inconsistent hearing surveillance may delay time-sensitive auditory interventions, leading to permanent and devastating outcomes. Formal discharge pathways, including automatic audiology referrals and scheduling, may protect opportunities for timely hearing rehabilitation, including cochlear implantation when indicated.