What is the purpose of the Whisper test in hearing assessment?

The Whisper test is designed specifically to evaluate the patient's ability to detect and identify sound. During this test, the examiner stands at a specified distance from the patient and whispers a series of words or numbers. The patient is required to repeat what they hear, which assesses not just the ability to hear sound, but also the ability to distinguish between different sounds and words. This test focuses on the auditory function significantly related to high-frequency sounds and speech clarity.

Measuring overall hearing ability involves a more comprehensive assessment that may include additional tests such as tuning fork tests or audiometric evaluations, rather than just relying on whispered words. Checking for ear wax buildup is a physical examination of the ear, which is not related to the purposes of the Whisper test itself. Assessing balance and coordination typically pertains to different evaluations involving the vestibular system, which is not the objective of the Whisper test. Hence, the correct purpose aligns specifically with evaluating sound detection and identification.