Welch Allyn TM 262 Auto Tymp - User Manual - Manual (Page 16)

TM 262
1-8 Revised 4/11/08
Manual audiometry
While tympanometry and acoustic reflex measurements check the integrity of the middle-ear
system, audiometry provides a means for checking the integrity of the entire auditory pathway.
Manual audiometry provides a method to check an individual’s ability to hear a test signal at a
particular intensity level or at the lowest possible intensity level without the use of masking.
During threshold audiometry, the test signal is generally presented through an earphone to the
ear under test. Different screening test protocols define the frequencies and intensity sequence
to be used to obtain a response. Audiometric testing requires a behavioral response for the
individual being tested. This consists of having the individual raise a finger/hand or press a
handswitch (optional) whenever the test signal is heard. The finger/hand is lowered or the
handswitch is released when the test signal is no longer audible. Thus, the individual being
tested must be able to understand a set of simple instructions and have the ability to provide
some physical sign when the test signal is heard.