Welch Allyn TM286 Auto Tymp - User Manual - Manual (Page 26)

22 Operation Welch Allyn TM286 Auto Tymp
Audiometry testing
Prior to testing, ensure that the earphone cords are plugged into the appropriate
connectors on the rear panel of the instrument. Both Headphones and Insert phones are
available. Select the appropriate transducer and the desired tone type (i.e., pulsed, steady,
or FM).
Instructing the patient/subject
Put the patient/subject as much at ease as possible before the test begins. In addition, it
is important to try to make them understand how the test is to be conducted and what
they will hear. For sake of uniformity, an unvarying explanation is advisable, for example:
"I am going to place these earphones over your ears. You will hear tones or beeping
sounds which may be loud or soft. Whenever you hear, or think you hear one of these
tones, raise your hand. Lower your hand when you no longer hear the sound. Remember,
raise your hand when you hear the tone and lower your hand when you do not."
Placement of earphones
The most important thing to remember is that a good seal is required between the
earphone cushion and the subject's/patient's head and ears. To increase the likelihood of
a good seal,
a. Eliminate all obstruction between the earphones and the ears (e.g., hair,
eyeglasses, earrings, hearing aids, etc.).
b. Adjust the headband so that it rests solidly on the crown of the subject's head
and exerts firm pressure on both ears.
c. Center the earphones carefully over both ears. The earphone with the red
connector goes on the right ear. Take care to eliminate any visible gaps between
the earphone cushions and portions of the individual's head and the ear on which
the cushion rests.
Placement of Insert earphones
1. Examine the ear canal for obstruction or excessive cerumen.
2. Make sure the sound tube is not blocked.
Caution Always handle earphones with care. Never drop them or permit them
to be squeezed together. Severe mechanical shock may change their operating
characteristics and require their replacement. Insert the earphone cords between
the earphone cushions during storage to prevent damage from mechanical
shock.
Note Modify the instructions accordingly if Insert phones are being used or if indicating
the sound is heard using the available handswitch.
WARNING Any program aimed at obtaining reliable records of hearing
thresholds should be staffed and supervised by appropriately-trained individuals.
Training courses leading to certification are available for audiometric technicians in
most urban areas.