CAOHC Medical Referral Criteria and Follow-up 3

Question 1

While a worker awaits the outcome of a physician evaluation following an STS, what should the OHC ensure regarding hearing protection?

Accepted Answer

The worker continues or is newly fitted with appropriate hearing protection devices

Answer

Hearing conservation measures, including HPD use, should continue or be initiated during the evaluation period to prevent further hearing loss.

Question 2

Under what circumstance does OSHA's hearing conservation standard permit the use of age correction (AADR) when evaluating audiometric results?

Accepted Answer

Only when calculating whether an STS may be work-related

Answer

OSHA permits age correction specifically when determining whether an STS is work-related, using the AADR tables, but it is optional and not mandatory for all comparisons.

Question 3

A worker refuses to attend the physician appointment arranged following an STS. What is the most appropriate action for the OHC?

Accepted Answer

Document the worker's refusal in the audiometric record and notify the appropriate supervisor

Answer

When a worker refuses a referral, the OHC must document the refusal thoroughly and notify the appropriate management — the OHC cannot force compliance but must protect the program's integrity.

Question 4

Who bears ultimate responsibility for interpreting audiograms and making medical determinations within an occupational hearing conservation program?

Accepted Answer

The supervising audiologist or physician overseeing the program

Answer

OHCs administer audiometric tests under the supervision of an audiologist or physician, who holds final authority for audiogram interpretation and medical decisions.

Question 5

An OHC is establishing a new hearing conservation program at a small employer site. No physician referral protocol exists yet. What is the correct course of action?

Accepted Answer

Work with the employer and a supervising audiologist or physician to establish a formal referral protocol before testing begins

Answer

A formal referral protocol must be established in collaboration with a supervising audiologist or physician prior to initiating audiometric testing to ensure appropriate follow-up.

CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test

CAOHC - Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation Practice Test

CAOHC Medical Referral Criteria and Follow-up 3