Telethon grants have funded the purchase new paediatric equipment which will allow Kununurra Hospital to test the hearing of newborn babies for the first time.
The advanced hearing screen system, which tests a baby’s brain response to sound rather than a physical response to vibration, will enable local medical staff to identify and address hearing problems at birth.
Without the new equipment these problems might have gone undiagnosed until the child began to speak.
The funding has also allowed the purchase of a new and more accurate neonatal monitor which measures vital signs to identify health problems early.
WA Country Health Service Kimberley nurse director Kylie Oliver said the monitors would assist staff to assess sick babies.
“These monitors have advanced functions which are particularly useful when transferring out really sick babies,” Ms Oliver said.
“WACHS Kimberley is very grateful to the trustees of Telethon and the generosity of the people of WA.”
Kununurra Hospital is one of 20 country hospitals which deliver babies.
By ALICIA BRIDGES
