Medico-legal use of otoacoustic emissions in the audiological selection process for employment

Abstract

A 6-year experience of the Italian Air Force Medical Selection Centre in the audiological evaluation of candidates for employment is summarized. Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) were introduced progressively from 1993 to analyse more effectively subjects affected with sensorineural hearing loss and reduce possible bias connected to standard audiometric tests. OAEs provided a useful tool to support pure-tone audiometry, providing more accurate audiological data. Finally, a reduction of medico-legal claims was observed in candidates undergoing OAE testing.