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Pure Tone Audiometry Screening



 Submitted by Nic on May 10, 2011
The ability to hear is an important function of the human body. It is one of the senses used extensively by human beings. Humans depend on oral communication which is facilitated by the hearing system. Sound waves enter the ear canal where they interact with the tympanic membrane. This membrane vibrates in order to produce movement in the bones of the inner ear. These bones produce signals which are picked up by the nerves in the inner ear. The nerves then pass the signals to the brain where they are interpreted. The process of hearing occurs at all times of the day. The human brain is very advanced and is capable of ignoring various ambient sounds while focusing on the sound that the person wishes to hear.

Pure tone audiometry screening is a test used to determine the degree of hearing loss. If hearing loss is associated with the degeneration of some of the parts of the ear, then hearing loss will be progressive. If hearing loss is associated with complete damage to the nervous system, then hearing loss will be complete. The pure tone audiometry screening is used to determine the extent to which an individual is unable to hear sounds. During the pure tone audiometry screening, the individual will be in a sound proof booth. Here, he or she will be made to sit with a pair of headphones placed on the ears. Each ear will be played some sounds at a particular level. The subject must respond to the test conductor who will be visible to the subject through a glass window. Every sound that is heard should be reported. When the pure tone audiometry screening is complete, the test conductor will be able to explain the degree of hearing loss.

Pure tone hearing screening is needed for individuals who wish to perform certain jobs where hearing ability is essential. Pure tone audiometry screening is also performed for people who seem to be experiencing trouble with hearing. These people will need to take the test to establish their rate of hearing loss. Further examination may be needed to determine the cause of the problem. After the pure tone audiometry, hearing aids are often prescribed especially if the subject falls in the moderate range of hearing loss. Such individuals will be able to live relatively normally once they use their hearing aids. The cooperation of the subject is essential for pure tone audiometry screening.
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