What range does the term 'dB HL' refer to?

The term 'dB HL' stands for decibels hearing level, which indicates a unit of measurement used in audiometry to reflect hearing sensitivity relative to a standardized reference level. The reference level for '0 dB HL' corresponds to the average threshold of hearing for a population with normal hearing abilities across various frequencies. This makes dB HL particularly useful in identifying hearing loss, as it allows professionals to compare an individual's hearing ability against this standard reference point. The measurement is crucial for establishing the severity of hearing impairment and for guiding treatment options.

In contrast, the other options do not correctly define what 'dB HL' represents. While 'sound level in decibels' and 'standard sound intensity level' might relate to decibel measurements, they do not specify that the levels are measured in relation to a normative hearing threshold, which is the essence of 'dB HL.' 'High-frequency level' is a misinterpretation, as 'dB HL' applies to a range of frequencies rather than specifically to high frequencies alone. Thus, the correct understanding of 'A' provides clarity on how hearing level measurements are standardized in audiometric evaluations.