Improving Accuracy and Reliability of Hearing Tests: Measurement Standards for Audiometric Devices
Wan-Ho Cho1, Jihyun Lee2, Young Joon Seo2
1Division of Physical Metrology, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science, Daejeon, Korea.
Journal of Audiology & Otology
|July 26, 2024
Summary
Accurate hearing tests rely on precise audiometer calibration. This study demonstrates traceable calibration and uncertainty evaluation are achievable, ensuring reliable hearing loss diagnosis and improving audiology standards.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Metrology
- Medical Device Calibration
Background:
- Pure-tone audiometry is essential for diagnosing hearing loss.
- International standards exist for audiometer calibration, but traceable processes and uncertainty evaluations are not widely adopted.
- This gap impacts the reliability of hearing test equipment qualification and maintenance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review standard measurement systems for audiometric devices.
- To introduce and evaluate calibration procedures for audiometers.
- To investigate the uncertainty associated with audiometer calibration and its effect on hearing test results.
Main Methods:
- Review of international standards for audiometer calibration.
- Implementation and analysis of calibration procedures for audiometric equipment.
- Investigation of measurement uncertainty for each calibration step.
Main Results:
- Traceable calibration procedures for audiometers were successfully developed and implemented.
- The uncertainty of the calibration processes met required standards.
- The evaluated uncertainty was significantly smaller than the permissible deviations for audiometers.
Conclusions:
- Traceable calibration and uncertainty evaluation for audiometers are feasible and essential.
- Implementing these metrological practices enhances the objectivity and reliability of hearing tests.
- Collaboration between metrology and audiology is crucial for maintaining low uncertainty and high-quality hearing assessments.
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