THE PURE-TONE AIR CONDUCTION AUDIOGRAM.

Many U. S. Air Force Flight Surgeons, medical officers, and others concerned with the conduct of hearing conservation programs have expressed the need for a set of guidelines to be used in the interpretation of audiometric data. Although the air conduction audiogram does not provide sufficient information to allow a definitive diagnosis to be made, it usually gives an indication as to whether a hearing loss is conductive or sensorineural in origin. In addition, determination may be made from the audiogram as to what further testing should be carried out and what action may be necessary to prevent further hearing loss. A method for interpretation of audiometric data is presented. An explanation of the various audiometric contours is given, followed by a step-by-step procedure for analyzing the pure-tone audiogram. In addition, recommendations are made concerning the handling of patients whose audiograms are not within normal limits. Utilization of these procedures within a compreshensive program of hearing testing, noise control, and education is recommended wherever personnel work in hazardous noise. They should also be helpful in dealing with other types of hearing losses. Author