IHS Audiometric Testing Procedures 3

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Spondee words

Answer

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

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Within 10 dB

Answer

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

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

90% or higher

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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.

IHS - International Hearing Society Practice Test

IHS - International Hearing Society Practice Test

IHS Audiometric Testing Procedures 3