Figure 216: AHA user interface in the measuring mode

The following test procedures are optional:

It is possible to skip the portion of the scaling orientation procedure where signals are presented prior to the actual test period; these items are not saved. It is also possible to manually begin the actual test procedure when the patient has demonstrated proper understanding and ability to perform the task during the orientation procedure. It is always important to re-instruct the patient prior to beginning the actual test procedure (Figure 216).

To start the orientation procedure you activate the side to be measured <right>, <left>, or <both sides>. Enable the measuring mode and click on <orientation> (circled in red in the figure to the left).

Figure 217: Orientation window for signal presentation

The procedure of the orientation measurement is identical to the actual test procedure. The only difference is that the orientation values are not saved and that random values between the patient's hearing thresholds and UCLs are selected as the levels and frequencies to be played (Figure 217).

When the patient is familiar with the measuring scale and procedure, you can begin the actual test.

If the patient seems unsure or if his/her selections do not make sense, stop the testing procedure. To minimize stopping during the test procedure, go through the complete loudness scaling test during the training period. This is the only way to ensure that the patient feels confident with the test procedures and his/her ability to make selections. Explain to the patient that he/she should only quantify the loudness of the presentation signals with the provided options; explain that it is not necessary for him/her to provide subjective thoughts about the presented signals.