What is a defining feature of Bekesy audiometry?

Bekesy audiometry is characterized by its automated procedure that allows for the assessment of hearing without the constant need for a human examiner's intervention. The test typically involves a continuous tone that the patient can control, which they can adjust in volume while moving through different frequencies. This design allows for a more direct assessment of the patient's auditory capabilities while providing valuable information about their hearing thresholds across frequencies.

The automation aspect is crucial because it means that the results can be obtained quickly and efficiently, without the bias or variability that might come from different examiners conducting the test. Additionally, this method offers a more patient-centered approach, as it enables individuals to actively participate in the testing process.

In contrast, other options are not defining features of Bekesy audiometry. For instance, it is not limited to diagnosing only conductive hearing loss; rather, it can provide insights into different kinds of hearing loss including sensory and mixed types. Similarly, while it does not focus exclusively on testing speech perception, it is primarily concerned with evaluating the thresholds of pure tones across frequencies. The focus of Bekesy audiometry is more on pure tone audiometry rather than the more complex assessments required for speech perception.