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Audiometric
examination
in
elementary
sohools
In November, 1934, following experimental use, systematic audiometric examination
of children in the elementary schools, by means of the gramophone audiometer,
was introduced by the Council. The object of this scheme is the ascertainment of
defective hearing in one or both ears, especially in its early stages, so that (a) by
means of timely treatment the defective condition may be remedied and permanent
deafness in later life averted, and (b) the suitable educational environment for the
child may be decided upon. One unit was established in the north-west division
of the county in November, 1934, a second unit in the south-east division in May,
1935, and a third unit in 1936 in the south-western division. In connection with the
new three years' programme one further unit was established during 1938 in the
northern division.
A unit consists of one gramophone audiometer; one full time nurse, who carries
out the testing of the children in the schools, and is present at the clinical examination;
and an otologist, who conducts one clinical examination and one treatment session
each week.
Audiometric
work
The work is under the direction of Mr. A. G. Wells, F.R.C.S., who has submitted
the following report:—

The subjoined table gives the total number of ears tested in 1938 and shows the results
in 4 separate groups, viz.—3 to 6 decibels = the passes; 9 decibels = those who just failed;
12 to 18 decibels = moderate degree of hearing loss; 21 to 30 = severer degree of hearing
loss. (The audiometer records are graded in steps of three decibels.)