Performance of individuals in the test of speech recognition index to live voice and recorded speech presentation

Abstract

Introduction: Carhart defi nes speech audiometry as a technique where standardized speech samples are used to measure the ability to recognize words. One way to “standardize” this procedure is the use of lists of recorded words. The aim of this study is to compare the performance of a group of subjects at the speech recognition index for monitored live voice and recorded speech audiometry. Method: prospective transversal study of a sample composed by 43 individuals (85 ears). All were tested for the Speech Recognition Index (SRI) for both ways of presentation: monitored live voice and recorded speech. Participants were examined in a different order of presentation Results: No statistically signifi cant difference was found when considering the order of presentation of words (live voice x recorded speech). Analysis of agreement between the results of the same patient in both conditions showed a statistically signifi cant difference (p<0.001), meaning that in 64.7%, the result was different. Conclusion: The results showed that patients’ performance in speech recognition index for recorded speech is better than with monitored live voice. It is recommended the use of recorded material to improve the quality of speech audiometry test.