brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER)

Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) is a test that measures the electrical activity in the brain in response to sounds. During the test, small, painless electrodes are placed on the scalp and earlobes, and the patient listens to sounds like clicking noises through headphones. The electrodes record how signals travel from the ear through the auditory nerve and brainstem. This helps doctors assess hearing ability and check for issues in the auditory pathways, such as nerve damage or brainstem problems. BAER is useful because it provides objective information about the functioning of the auditory system, especially in patients who can't communicate effectively.