Tuesday 23 July 2013

The Important Use Of Audiometers

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.

With their important function, the devices should be calibrated routinely. This is necessary to make sure the levels on the display are always equivalent to the stimulus that the patient is exposed to. With proper calibration, the measurements will be consistent and the results will be accurate. An audiometric calibration system used to do the calibration.

To test air conduction hearing, a system that includes an ear simulator is used. For this system, an artificial ear calibrates air conduction. Headphones will be applied to the open side of the coupler. There is an internal microphone that detects sound pressure level within the cavity. Outputs will be measured by a sound level meter.

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.

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.

Since various types are now available, hearing specialists will be able to find their choice of equipment. There are stand alone types which are often used for screening. Some are also computer based which are commonly used for diagnostic purposes. Each of these equipments have different intensities and frequencies depending on the exact application these are designed 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 already know the significance of audiometers in their field. Physicians should have appropriate equipment in their clinics in order for them to do their job correctly. They must have the right equipment to provide quality services and better treatment to patients. A hearing condition can be managed effectively if the patient is correctly diagnosed.




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