Ch. 8: Classification of Single & Periodic Tests Part A

Question 1

When should the technician send a worker’s results to an audiologist or physician who specializes in audiometric data?

Answer 1

Results that are categorized as abnormal should be sent to an audiologist or physician.

Question 2

Why is a hearing test, on its own, not a diagnostic tool? 2

Answer 2

• A hearing test is a screening tool, not a diagnostic tool, because it does not provide enough information to make a diagnosis.
• Technicians are not qualified to make any diagnoses.

Question 3

What criteria are used to classify test results as normal?

Answer 3

Results are classified as normal (N) when all thresholds in both ears are 25 dB or lower.

Question 4

What criteria are used to classify test results as abnormal (Abn)? 3

Answer 4

Results are abnormal (Abn) if any of the following criteria exist:

a. Threshold in either ear is greater than 25 dB at 500, 1000, or 2000 Hz.
b. Threshold level in either ear is greater than 60 dB at 3000, 4000, or 6000 Hz.
c. When there is one-sided hearing loss and the difference between the better and poorer ear exceeds an average of 30 dB at 3000, 4000, and 6000 Hz. This is called a unilateral hearing loss.

Question 5

What criteria are used to classify periodic test results as AbS?

Answer 5

Results are classified as an abnormal shift (AbS) when there is a threshold shift in either ear of 15 dB at two consecutive test frequencies from 1000 Hz up to and including 6000 Hz when compared to the baseline test.

• When an abnormal shift occurs, the best practice is to retest the worker within 30 days.
• If an abnormal shift is identified, the repeated test should be completed when the worker is feeling well (with no upper respiratory illness) and a minimum of 12 hours without noise exposure.