The Use Of Audiometers In Diagnostics

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.

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.

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.

Several models of these devices now exist. Different models have their own specifications and these can be used for specific purposes. With these devices, hearing problems can be effectively diagnosed by physicians. Diagnostic procedures simply cannot be performed without the use of certain equipments. It is easy to see how these devices made a big difference in the field.

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 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 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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