Thursday, July 18, 2013

About Audiometers And Their Use

By Roxanne Cruz


Audiometers are devices used to evaluate hearing loss. These are standard equipments found in audiology centers. Such devices typically consist of hardware connected to a pair of headphones and a button for the test subject. With advances in technology today, some of these devices are controlled by computers. There are certain standards set for the test procedures.

There has been a lot of developments in the field over the years. Different devices are now used for certain purposes. One type that can be used at home is called a screening PC based which people can use to test their own hearing. A more accurate type is the clinical PC based which is used in hospitals, clinics, as well as research facilities.

These equipments must be calibrated routinely to make sure that levels on display are equal to the stimulus the patient is subjected to. Proper calibration ensures that measurements are always consistent and results are accurate. The devices are calibrated using audiometric calibration system. When it comes to diagnostic tools, accuracy is very important.

Air conduction hearing will be tested using a system with an ear simulator. In this system, air conduction is calibrated using an artificial ear. The headphones will be connected with the open side of the coupler. An internal microphone is used to detect sound pressure level on the inside of the cavity. A sound level meter will also measure the outputs.

Meanwhile, bone conduction hearing will be tested with the use of an artificial mastoid. This device can calibrate channels of bone conduction in audiometers. This can test hearing in response to mechanisms by bone conduction. It has a dome that is similar to the human mastoid. In this case, the force applied will be measured by a transducer and the output will be measured with a sound meter.

Various models of these equipments are now used. These models have certain specifications that make them suited for specific applications. Now that these equipments are available, it is easier for physicians to diagnose hearing problems. Special equipments would be needed to perform some diagnostic procedures. This field in medicine has greatly benefited from these tools.

With different types available today, hearing specialists can find an equipment that can be of best use to them. Some of these are stand alone equipments which are used for screening purposes. There are also a number of units that are computer based used for diagnostic examinations. These equipments can have different frequencies and intensities depending on their exact purpose.

Diagnostic equipments should always be fully functional and working efficiently. Accuracy is a very important quality of these devices to make sure they provide reliable measurements. Accurate results are necessary to create a correct diagnosis of one's hearing problems. Specialists would need to know the extent of the patient's hearing loss to determine what type of management would be effective.

Hearing specialists realize the need to have audiometers in their clinics. It is very important for physicians to have the right type of equipment. This is essential for them to provide quality treatment and services to patients. With proper diagnosis, patients can be treated effectively so they can be relieved from their symptoms and have better chances at full recovery.




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