[Functional screening evaluation of hearing aids]

A complaint about a malfunctioning hearing aid (HA) usually will require thorough testing of all aspects of hearing aid functions by the hearing aid dispenser. However, ENT physicians can also detect defects easily by following the simple screening procedure described here. Before testing the HA function, the following questions should be answered: Are the body of the hearing aid and ear mold intact? Is the ear canal free of irritation and is the acoustic isolation of the ear canal by the HA sufficient? A rough estimate of HA function can be accomplished by covering the HA with the hand. If the HA is switched on, a feedback, high-pitched sound should be produced. HA amplification can be assessed by using a stethoclip. After the examination is completed, all switches should be put back into their previous positions. Although these basic procedures are not equivalent to diligent and comprehensive acoustical testing, they are still useful for the otologist to detect major faults in the HA before referring the patient to the hearing aid dispenser.