The tuning fork frequency considered ideal for bedside hearing tests such as Rinne and Weber is:
- A 128 Hz
- B 256 Hz
- C 512 Hz ✓
- D 2048 Hz
Correct answer: C. 512 Hz
Explanation
A 512 Hz fork is standard because it lies in the speech frequency range while producing minimal tactile (vibratory) sensation. At 256 Hz and below, patients feel the vibration through skin and periosteum and may report hearing when nothing is heard, causing errors. Forks above 1024 Hz have rapid sound decay, requiring heavy striking and giving an unstable stimulus. Hence 512 Hz balances adequate duration, audible pitch, and negligible tactile perception.
Reference: Dhingra, Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.