Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the time taken to perform audiological evaluation under routine clinical test conditions. We also aimed to investigate relevant variables and reasons for increases in test time.

MATERIALS and METHODS: The total test times of 300 patients were recorded and calculated using an “Audiological Evaluation Time Calculation Form.” Behavioral and objective test times were determined and calculated separately. The patients were divided into groups on the basis of age, educational status, cooperation, and coordination in order to determine the effects of these factors on the test time.

RESULTS: The mean time for behavioral tests was 41.85 min for children below the age of 6 years and 36.2 min for those above that age. The times for transient evoked otoacoustic emission, distortion product otoacoustic emission, automated auditory brainstem response, and auditory brainstem response tests were 6.4/4.3 min, 4.8/6.9 min, 14.4 min, and 48.0/47.5 min, respectively, for the two age groups. The shortest total test times were obtained from the 15-29 age group, high school/university levels, and patients who cooperated. Conversely, the longest total test times were found in 6-14 age group, those with no literacy, and who hardly cooperated.

CONCLUSION: Although audiological evaluation methods have well-defined international standards, numerous factors, including patient conditions, clinician experience, and equipment, may have an adverse effect on test times. Determining the optimum patient number in one working day can help reduce workload and work stress and prevent possible errors of diagnosis/treatment. It will also help determine staff numbers needed in audiology clinics.