Introduction
Auditory screening tests are essential for early detection of hearing issues, especially in newborns, children, and at-risk populations.
Hearing test provides an evaluation for the sensitivity of a person’s sense of hearing.
Definition
Hearing test is one of the most common diagnostic procedures performed by an audiologist to detect hearing loss.
Purposes
- To identify sensory hearing loss.
- To identify noise-induced hearing loss.
Indications
- Otosclerosis.
- Abnormal growth of bone near the middle ear.
- Calcification of tissue in the eardrum.
- Ear infection.
- Hearing loss.
- Trauma to the external ear canal.
- Any history of malignancy of the external ear.
Contraindications
- Persistent pain.
- Sudden loss or sudden deterioration of hearing.
- Fluctuating hearing loss not associated with head colds or other respiratory tract infection.
- Troublesome tinnitus.
- Abnormal auditory perception (dysacusis).
- Vertigo.
Articles
| Articles | Purpose |
| Audiometer with headphones | To assess the ability to hear. |
| Pen torch | For visualization of the ear canal. |
| Quiet room | To avoid distraction. |
| Electrical outlet | To provide adequate power supply. |
| Antibacterial wipes | To prevent infection. |
Preparation
- Enquire about the medical history of ear infection and the medication used.
- Instruct the patient to remove ear wax at least 2 days before a hearing test.
- Instruct the patient not to use cotton swabs or place anything in the ear to avoid damage to the ear canal.
- Instruct the patient to take a warm washcloth and gently wipe his or her ear with a finger.
- Advise the patient to avoid any noise louder than that of a vacuum cleaner for about 12 hours before the hearing test.
- Make sure that the patient takes adequate rest before the hearing test.
- Provide a quiet environment.
- Check the audiometer (listen to a few beeps for the right and left headphones).
- Arrange the needed articles.
Types of Auditory Screening Tests
- General Screening Tests
In general screening tests, the patient is asked to cover one of his or her ears and listen to the examiner’s voice to determine how well the patient can hear with each ear.
- App-Based Hearing Tests
App-based hearing tests are very convenient and can be taken at home. The app can be downloaded on the patient’s smartphone or tablet. This test helps to determine whether the patient suffers from hearing damage and should seek treatment. It provides a quick result and is easy to use for testing the hearing ability.
- Tuning Fork Tests
Tuning fork tests are performed to determine whether there is any hearing damage in one or both of the ears. The tuning fork is a metal device with two prongs. When it vibrates, it makes a tone. Depending on where it is placed and the patient’s response to the tone, the audiologist can determine whether the patient has conductive or sensorineural hearing loss.
- Audiometer Tests
Audiometers are specialized machines used for determining hearing acuity. They are made up of a hardware unit and a pair of headphones.
Special Considerations
- Simplify instructions and use nonverbal cues. Objective testing may be necessary if responses are inconsistent.
- Periodic screening is recommended, especially for those with risk factors like frequent ear infections, speech delays, or academic difficulties.
- Screen those exposed to occupational noise, ototoxic medications, or with family history of hearing loss.
- Perform tests in a sound-treated booth or the quietest possible setting to avoid false positives/negatives.
- Audiometers and screening devices must be calibrated annually to ensure accuracy.
- Ensure proper placement of headphones or insert earphones to avoid sound leakage or discomfort.
- Clean earphones, probes, and response buttons between patients.
- Use single-use covers for insert earphones, especially in pediatric or immunocompromised populations.
REFERENCES
- Annamma Jacob, Rekha, Jhadav Sonali Tarachand: Clinical Nursing Procedures: The Art of Nursing Practice, 5th Edition, March 2023, Jaypee Publishers, ISBN-13: 978-9356961845 ISBN-10: 9356961840
- Omayalachi CON, Manual of Nursing Procedures and Practice, Vol 1, 3 Edition 2023, Published by Wolters Kluwer’s, ISBN: 978-9393553294
- Sandra Nettina, Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice, 11th Edition, January 2019, Published by Wolters Kluwers, ISBN-13:978-9388313285
- Adrianne Dill Linton, Medical-Surgical Nursing, 8th Edition, 2023, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323826716
- Donna Ignatavicius, Medical-Surgical Nursing: Concepts for Clinical Judgment and Collaborative Care, 11th Edition ,2024, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323878265
- Lewis’s Medical-Surgical Nursing, 12th Edition,2024, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323789615
- AACN Essentials of Critical Care Nursing, 5th Ed. Sarah. Delgado, 2023, Published by American Association of Critical-Care Nurses ISBN: 978-1264269884
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