Audiometric Testing Procedures Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of speech recognition threshold (SRT) testing?

Answer: To confirm pure-tone average and assess functional hearing for speech

The SRT validates the pure-tone average and establishes the softest level at which a patient can correctly repeat 50% of spondee words.

Which type of words are standardly used in Speech Recognition Threshold (SRT) testing?

Answer: Spondee words

Spondee words (two-syllable words with equal emphasis on each syllable, like 'baseball' or 'airplane') are used because they have predictable audibility.

What is the acceptable agreement range between the pure-tone average (PTA) and the speech recognition threshold (SRT)?

Answer: Within 10 dB

The SRT should agree within 10 dB of the three-frequency pure-tone average; a larger discrepancy suggests test reliability concerns.

In word recognition testing, what percentage score typically indicates normal word recognition ability?

Answer: 90% or higher

A word recognition score of 90% or higher is generally considered within normal limits for speech discrimination ability.

What presentation level is most commonly used for word recognition testing in clinical practice?

Answer: 30-40 dB above the SRT or most comfortable loudness level

Word recognition testing is typically performed at 30–40 dB above the SRT or at the patient's most comfortable loudness level to maximize audibility.

What does a 'rollover' phenomenon in word recognition testing suggest?

Answer: Retrocochlear pathology such as acoustic neuroma

Rollover occurs when word recognition scores decrease at higher intensity levels, which is a hallmark sign of retrocochlear (neural) pathology.

Which audiometric finding best describes a 'flat' audiogram configuration?

Answer: Equal hearing loss across all frequencies tested

A flat audiogram shows approximately equal threshold elevations across all tested frequencies, with no more than 20 dB variation.