subject: Hearing Test Implementation And Results [print this page] A hearing test is a series of screenings that an audiologist gives to patients who believe that there may be something wrong with the way they receive and perceive sounds and words. It is important that when an individual thinks something may be different with the way he or she receives sounds and words, this person seek expert advice and help regarding finding out what to do to determine if his or her ability to hear is impaired. The safety and well-being of the individual may be affected with the full or partial loss of the ability to receive sounds and words.
The Implementation
Only an expert should give the hearing test to the patient. The reason behind this is because audiologists know how to give it as well as how to adjust the device that is used for the screening. These experts also know how to graph the results as well as interpret them when the testing is finished. The evaluation starts with the patient in a soundproof booth or room. An audiometer is used to give the sound or word as well as to receive and plot the progress of the individual in the booth. He or she is given headphones or earphones from which the sounds or words will be passed through. The patient is asked to give a signal when he or she hears the sound or the words by either raising a hand or pressing a button. In some cases, the individual who is undergoing the evaluation might need to say the word that has been transmitted or repeat it. This is a part of a speech evaluation that is related to the hearing test that might be given to the patient. The speech evaluation is not given all the time when the patient wants to be checked. A graph is used to plot the progress and results of the evaluation. The graph contains the frequency of the sound as well as the loudness as the patient receives it. From this graph, the specialist will be able to determine the extent of the impairment that the individual might have by determining which tone was heard properly. Apart from the use of the audiometer, there are also other kinds of tests that can be used to determine the extent of the individual's impairment.
The Results
The results of the hearing test will determine if there is indeed something wrong with the person's ability to hear, both sounds and words properly. Looking at the results, the audiologist can recommend a device that will help the person with his ability to receive and perceive sounds and words. The results of the evaluation will also be the basis of the settings for the device that will help the patient hear better and receive sounds properly. The tool that is used to help the person hear is strategically placed in the ear canal or just before it. Some wires and tubes might be attached to it to a small box that will be the receiver and transmitter for the individual.
