ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION:
One of the problems observed in pure-tone audiometry tonal has been the variation in test results of a same individual, particularly at frequencies of 4 kHz, 6 kHz and/or 8 kHz. Improper placement of headphones is one of the factors that can cause alterations in results.
OBJECTIVE:
To compare differences in auditory thresholds using earphones positioned by the examiner and by the worker.
METHODS:
Clinical and experimental study conducted in 2009, with 324 workers aged between 19 and 61 years, with a mean of 33.29 years and mean exposure time of 7.67 years. All subjects were familiar with audiometry procedures. Auditory thresholds were obtained at frequencies of 0.25-8 kHz, with earphones positioned by the examiners, and at frequencies of 4, 6 and 8 kHz, with earphones placed by workers in a comfortable position, following the examiner's instructions. The thresholds obtained in these two situations were compared.
RESULTS:
The three frequencies exhibited better responses with earphones placed by the workers themselves (p < 0.001). At a frequency of 8 kHz a greater difference was found (p < 0.001), with a mean of 13.89 dB and standard deviation of 6.07 dB.
CONCLUSION:
Earphone placement by the workers themselves under supervision of the examiner results in improved mean auditory thresholds at frequencies of 4, 6 and 8 kHz, the last one significantly higher than the other two.
Keywords:
Pure-tone audiometry; Auditory threshold; Occupational health
