CAOHC Occupational Hearing Loss 2

Question 1

What is the primary mechanism of noise-induced hearing loss at the cellular level?

Accepted Answer

Destruction of cochlear hair cell stereocilia through mechanical damage and metabolic stress

Answer

Noise-induced hearing loss primarily results from damage to the stereocilia on the outer and inner hair cells of the cochlea.

Question 2

What is the difference between temporary threshold shift and permanent threshold shift?

Accepted Answer

TTS is a temporary hearing reduction that recovers after rest; PTS is irreversible hearing damage

Answer

A temporary threshold shift recovers after a period away from noise, while a permanent threshold shift represents irreversible damage.

Question 3

Which frequencies are typically affected first in noise-induced hearing loss?

Accepted Answer

3000 to 6000 Hz, with the characteristic notch at 4000 Hz

Answer

NIHL characteristically begins in the 3000-6000 Hz range, with the deepest notch typically at 4000 Hz.

Question 4

How does noise-induced hearing loss differ from age-related hearing loss?

Accepted Answer

Noise-induced shows a notch at 4000 Hz with recovery at 8000 Hz; presbycusis shows a gradual high-frequency slope without recovery

Answer

The key distinction is the notch pattern with 8000 Hz recovery versus gradual slope without recovery.

Question 5

What role does tinnitus play in occupational hearing loss?

Accepted Answer

Tinnitus often accompanies NIHL and can be an early warning sign of cochlear damage

Answer

Tinnitus frequently accompanies NIHL and can serve as an early indicator, sometimes appearing before measurable threshold shifts.

CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test