Tympanometry

I. DESCRIPTION:
is an examination used to test the condition of the middle ear and mobility of
the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and the conduction bones by creating variations
of air pressure in the ear canal. Tympanometry provides a way, along with a
physical exam, for doctors to diagnose and monitor problems with the middle ear. It
can help with diagnosing disorders that can lead to hearing loss, especially in
children. The test measures your ears response to both sound and pressure. The
results are recorded on a graph called a tympanogram.
The test can tell the doctor if you have:
fluid in your middle ear
otitis media (ear infection)
a perforation (tear) in the eardrum
a problem with the Eustachian tube (tube that links the upper part of the throat and
nose with the middle ear) To chronicle how much fluid a child has in their middle ear
over time, typanometry can be performed every few weeks for several months.
II. MATERIALS/ NEEDED:
Equipment

III. PROCEDURE
1. Prepare
IV. DIAGRAM/ ILLUSTRATIONS:

V. NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. BEFORE PROCEDURE

Obtain signed consent form from the patient

Obtain a sample for the test (Usually it is blood)
Collect whole blood into anti-coagulant containing tube, such as
BD Vacutainer Coagulation tubes (Cat #: 363080/363080) or add
0.1 M sodium citrate to 1/10 final volume.
Centrifuge at 3,000 rpm for 10 min at 4C.
Immediately aliquot supernatant (plasma) and store samples at
-80C. Minimize freeze/thaw cycles.
Explain why is it performed, what are the indication, and the risk
Prepare all the materials needed

2. DURING THE PROCEDURE

Do the procedure in a clean environment

Follow the protocol of the hospital on the procedure

3. AFTER PROCEDURE

Reference:

Explain the result to the patient give confidentiality to the result

Advice the patient if the test is positive he/she might be advice to take
western blood exam

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http://www.healthline.com/health/tympanometry