A completed hearing test generates an audiogram.
Hearing tests are routine evaluations given as a part of an organization's hearing conservation program. Mobile testing units are the most effective way to test employees living or working in a remote environment. These commercial vehicles come with OSHA-approved testing equipment and booths. Audiologists or trained personnel employed by private or government organization usually administer the tests. You can find several other methods.
Instructions
1. Hire a mobile testing organization. Both private and government organizations provide remote-site hearing evaluations for employees by using a mobile hearing test vehicle. A private company that specializes in assisting an organization's hearing conservation program provides the vehicle. The mobile testing unit is equipped with a number of soundproof audio-booths, audiometric testing devices and hearing loss prevention training aids. Many of these organizations advertise on the Internet. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) certifies and regulates them.
2. Use a tuning fork. This hand-held device can evaluate hearing response to noise stimulus at several frequencies. The two most common hearing tests with a tuning fork are the Rinne and the Weber tests. To complete a Weber test, strike the tuning fork then place the fork along the bones of the mid-line of the face and ask the patient to identify which ear hears the sound. Place the mastoid bone behind the ear during the Rinne test. Ask the patient to identify the louder of a series of sounds. For testing purposes, a tuning fork comes in a variety of sizes and produces a variety of frequencies.
3. Use a speech recognition test or SPRINT test. A speech recognition test is an alternative testing measure used to determine hearing loss. Simultanously during the speech recognition test, the tester introduces a series of words with background noise to the patient. The patient responds by a predetermined indicator such as raising either hand or by pressing an electronic response button. Either an audiologist or a trained audiology technician must administer the test.
Tags: tuning fork, recognition test, speech recognition, speech recognition test, conservation program
