Interacoustics AA222 - 2 General Operation of the Tympanometry Module; Preparing for the Tympanometry Test; Tympanometry Patient Instruction; Visual Inspection of the Ear Canal

AA222 Additional Information Page 3
2 General operation of the tympanometry
module
2.1 Preparing for the tympanometry test
2.1.1 Tympanometry patient instruction
Place the patient on a comfortable chair or, if necessary, on an examination table. Younger children may feel
more comfortable sitting on a parent's or nurse's lap. Show the probe to the patient and then explain the
following:
• The aim of the test is to assess the mobility of the eardrum
• The tip of the probe will be inserted into the ear canal and has to make a perfect seal
• A small amount of air will flow through the probe to move the eardrum; it produces a sensation
similar to pressing a finger slightly into the ear canal
• One or more tones will be heard during the test
• No active participation is expected from the patient
• Coughing, talking and swallowing will disturb test results
2.1.2 Visual inspection of the ear canal
Check the external ear canal for wax with an otoscope and remove any excessive wax to prevent the probe
opening from clogging, as this would inhibit testing. Excessive hairs may have to be cut.