Which of the following describes the use of a tuning fork?

A tuning fork is primarily utilized in the medical field to assess auditory function. When vibrated, it produces a specific frequency sound that can help determine a patient’s ability to hear different pitches. This is particularly useful in distinguishing between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.

When a tuning fork is struck, it resonates and emits a clear tone, which can be used in various hearing tests. One common application is the Rinne and Weber tests, which help indicate the type of hearing impairment a patient might have. This specific use encapsulates how tuning forks serve as a diagnostic tool in audiology, making the answer focused on testing hearing the correct choice.

Other options represent tools and methods that serve entirely different purposes: measuring blood pressure requires a sphygmomanometer, assessments of skin conditions require visual inspection or dermatological tools, and temperature measurement typically involves a thermometer. These distinctions clarify why only the tuning fork is applicable for auditory assessments.