**2.1.4 Scope evaluation**

Scope evaluation utilizes a light emitted by an otoscope. The examiner is able to look into the outer and middle ear through a lens on the rear of the instrument and to screen for disease including otitis or infection during regular clinical check-ups. Figure 2 depicts the

Fig. 2. Welch-Allyn handle otoscope

adult and pediatric populations. It is categorized according to whether the words are aimed at evaluating detection level ability, syllable, phoneme, word, or sentence perception (Australian Hearing Group, 2001). Additionally, it is designed to provide a useful overview of the key features (e.g., target hearing-impaired group, clinical application) of each of the tests and thereby assists the Audiologist in selecting the appropriate speech perception

The acoustic reflex test measures the contraction of the stapedius, a tiny muscle in the middle ear, in response to loud sounds, which occurs under normal conditions when a sufficiently intense sound is presented to the auditory pathway. This muscle contraction causes a stiffening of the ossicular chain, which alters the compliance of the middle ear system. When stimulus presentation and measurement are effected on the same ear by means of the probe tone, this acoustical reflex is referred to as an ipsilateral acoustic reflex. When stimulus presentation and measurement are effected on opposite ears, the reflex is

Stimulus tones of varying intensities of 500, 1000, 2000 or 4000 Hz are presented as short bursts. If a change in compliance greater than 0.05ml is detected, a reflex is considered to be present. Because this is an extremely small compliance change, any movement of the probe during the test may produce an artifact (false response). The test result is recorded as Pass/No Response in graphic form (MAICO, 2007). The level of loudness aids in identifying

Scope evaluation utilizes a light emitted by an otoscope. The examiner is able to look into the outer and middle ear through a lens on the rear of the instrument and to screen for disease including otitis or infection during regular clinical check-ups. Figure 2 depicts the

test/s for the individual patient and the specific clinical situation.

**2.1.3 Acoustic reflex test** 

**2.1.4 Scope evaluation** 

Fig. 2. Welch-Allyn handle otoscope

referred to as a contralateral acoustic reflex.

the location of the problem along the auditory pathway.

Welch-Allyn otoscope (Golfain et al., 2008), which is a small hand-held instrument. It has a light that is directed through a funnel-like tip to illuminate the ear canal for examination. The funnel-like tip is called speculum. The specula are disposable and come in sizes for average adult ear canals. The otoscope is powered by a rechargeable battery located in the handle; the handle is detachable and can be plugged into a standard wall outlet for recharging.
