About Audiometers And Their Use

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.

This field has had many developments over the years resulting in different variations of these devices. One type is referred to as clinical PC based which is more accurate when used to test hearing loss. These are the types often used diagnostic centers, hospitals, and research studies. A screening PC based is also available and this can be used at home for personal hearing tests.

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.

For testing air conduction hearing, an ear simulator is included in the system. In this system, the artificial ear is designed to calibrate air conduction. The headphones are applied to the coupler's open side. An internal microphone will detect the sound pressure level inside the cavity. The electrical output is measured using a sound level meter.

On the other hand, bone conduction hearing is tested using an artificial mastoid. Such device calibrates the bond conduction channels of audiometers. Bone conduction mechanisms can be used to test hearing. This device has a dome shaped part which emulates a human mastoid. The force applied is measured by a force transducer. A sound meter also measures the output.

Different models of the devices are now available. Each of these models may have its own specifications making them suitable for specific purposes. Using these devices, physicians can efficiently diagnose hearing loss and related problems. Diagnostic procedures would require the use of special equipments. These devices have made such a difference in this field.

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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