What does the Y-axis of an audiogram measure?

The Y-axis of an audiogram measures decibels (dB), which is a unit of measurement that quantifies sound intensity or loudness. In the context of an audiogram, the Y-axis represents the hearing level, indicating how loud a sound needs to be in order for a person to hear it at various frequencies.

This measurement is critical for audiologists and hearing aid dispensers, as it allows them to assess a patient's hearing ability and determine the degree of hearing loss. By plotting different frequencies on the X-axis against the corresponding dB levels on the Y-axis, professionals can visualize a patient's hearing range and tailor interventions accordingly.

The other options do not pertain directly to what the Y-axis measures on an audiogram. Duration of sound exposure relates to how long a person is exposed to sound, which is not represented on the audiogram. Age of the patient does not affect the scale of measurement on the audiogram. Similarly, Hz (frequency) is measured along the X-axis, which displays the pitch of sounds rather than the loudness indicated by the Y-axis.