Test-retest variability using the Liverpool screening audiometer in a field environment

The Liverpool Field Audiometer (LFA) has been developed as a simple, hand-held device for screening audiometry in developing countries. The variability in the outcome of screening using the LFA was studied with 275 primary schoolchildren in five Brisbane schools. A 30 dB HL screening level was used. The device was found to give low test-retest outcome variability at the test frequencies 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz and 4000 Hz. However, variability was high at 500 Hz and caution should be exercised when data at this frequency are obtained. Possible reasons for this low-frequency variability are suggested.