What does STS stand for in hearing assessment terminology?

In hearing assessment terminology, STS stands for Standard Threshold Shift. This term is crucial in the context of audiology and hearing conservation programs. A Standard Threshold Shift refers to a detectable change in hearing thresholds compared to baseline measurements, typically defined as a change of 10 dB or more at the frequencies of 2000, 3000, or 4000 Hz in one or both ears.

The identification of an STS is significant because it helps in monitoring the hearing health of individuals over time, especially in occupational settings where exposure to high noise levels may pose risks to hearing. Understanding and recognizing STS enable audiologists and hearing technicians to take appropriate actions, such as modifying work environments or conducting further assessments.

The other terms listed, while they may pertain to various aspects of hearing and audiology, do not specifically represent the established terminology needed to describe significant changes in hearing levels in the same way that Standard Threshold Shift does.