Wednesday, July 24, 2013

The Important Use Of Audiometers

By Roxanne Cruz


Audiometers are tools primarily used to evaluate hearing problems. These equipments are commonly found in audiology clinics. These devices usually consist of hardware that is connected to a set of headphones. There is also a button intended for the subject. Now that technology is advanced, these devices can be operated with computers. Standards are set for these test procedures.

As this field has developed over the years, different variations of the devices have been made. One type of the device is clinical PC based. These are more accurate when testing hearing problems. These types are generally used in hospitals, diagnostic centers, and research studies. Another type is the screening PC based which can be used by anyone in their own homes to test hearing.

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.

Bone conduction hearing can be tested with an artificial mastoid. The device can calibrate bone conduction channel of audiometers. This is used to test hearing as response to bone conduction mechanisms. The tool has a dome which represents the human mastoid. A transducer measures the force applied and the output is measured by 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.

Since there are already many equipments available, hearing specialists can choose an equipment of their choice. Some types are the stand alone kind and these are usually used for screening. The computer based types are often used for diagnostic purposes. These devices have their own frequencies and intensities which may depend on the exact application they are for.

Diagnostic equipments should be efficient and fully operational all the time. One important factor that must be possessed by these equipments is accuracy. This factor ensures the users that measurements are reliable. The results should be accurate as much as possible to make a correct diagnosis. Specialists must determine how extensive a patient's hearing loss is to provide effective treatment.

Hearing specialists know the importance of having audiometers in their facilities. Physicians must have the kind of equipment needed for them to perform their duties. Proper equipments are necessary to they can provide quality treatments and better services. Patients can be given appropriate management if they are accurately diagnosed. This gives them a better chance at recovery.




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