The newborn did not pass the otoacoustic emissions test in the left ear. Should I be concerned?

The newborn's left ear did not pass the otoacoustic emissions test. This could be due to external auditory canal issues such as cerumen impaction or residual amniotic fluid, which may interfere with sound conduction and reflection. These conditions are relatively mild and hearing may return to normal after proper cleaning. Alternatively, there may be problems in the inner ear or auditory nerve, such as congenital hearing loss.

There is no need to panic excessively. Follow the doctor's advice and bring the baby back for a repeat otoacoustic emissions test at the appropriate time to determine if the issue is due to external auditory canal factors. If the repeat test is also not passed, more detailed hearing assessments, such as auditory brainstem response testing, will be needed to determine the extent and location of any hearing impairment.