Welch Allyn TM 262 Auto Tymp - User Manual - Manual (Page 42)

TM 262
3-8 Revised 4/11/08
Tympanometry testing information
As mentioned, it is a good idea to perform a test on a normal ear each day to make certain that
your instrument is functioning properly. See Biological Check in Chapter 2 for details.
Helpful hints
Tympanometry and acoustic reflex testing can be performed at any age. However, the technique
used will vary with age. From three years through adult, tympanometry can be performed with
little difficulty due to the cooperative nature of this age group. With the under-three-year
population, a bit of ingenuity is required to keep the patient relatively quiet during the seconds
required for the test. In all cases, distraction is the key to success. Anything which provides a
sound and/or visual distraction should work.
Sucking on a pacifier or a bottle will help with the younger population. However, the
tympanogram tracing will not appear as smooth due to the movement artifact. Having a parent
hold an infant during testing will also help.
The key to success in all cases is to make sure that you are at eye level with the ear canal. Keep
your hand steady and your eyes on the ear canal and probe lights until the test is over. It is a
good idea upon first receiving your instrument to practice on a cooperative patient to gain
confidence in its use. Once you feel comfortable with the probe, you are ready to handle any
situation. Remain calm and success will follow.
Obtaining a seal
Six different size eartips are provided with your instrument. The size eartip will vary with
skeletal size of the individual it is to be used on. Generally speaking, the following criteria
applies:
• Preemie -8 mm
• Newborn -8 mm, 11 mm
• Pre-school -11 mm, 13 mm
• School age -11 mm, 13 mm, 15 mm
• Adult -15 mm, 17 mm, 19 mm
NOTE: Before attempting to seal the entrance of the ear canal, visually inspect the opening to
make sure that the canal is free of any obstruction. If the canal is completely plugged at the
entrance or if fluid is running from the ear canal, tympanometry should not be attempted until
the condition is cleared.
NOTE: Damage to the probe can result if fluid is pulled up into the probe with negative
pressure.