Validation of computerized audiometric testing system for industrial populations

Abstract

Since specific audiometric tests used to evaluate hearing have been standardized and narrowly defined in terms of instrumentation, test stimuli and mechanics of administration, the application of computer technology should be ideally suited to the task of performing the basic pure tone audiometric tests and evaluating changes that may occur in industrial hearing conservation programs. This report describes the development and validation of a Computerized Audiometric Testing System (CATS) capable of testing up to six stations simultaneously. The system uses state-of-the-art electronic design coupled with advanced programming for stimulus control, data analysis, and validation of responses. A total of 55 subjects were used in the validation study—35 in the single-station experiment and 20 in the multiple-station experiment. ALL subjects were alternately tested by manual audiometry and by the CAT system, with the order of testing counter-balanced. The largest mean difference between the two systems in the single-station experiment was 3.7 dB which occurred at 500 Hz in the right ear. Mean differences at all other frequencies were 2.0 dB or less. Analysis of data from both experiments and coefficient of correlation will be described.