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Tympanometry as a screening tool in the NICU: is it effective?
Neonatal Network : NN
|December 1, 1993
Summary
Tympanometry is not a reliable tool for screening preterm infants for otitis media in the NICU. Further research is needed to improve diagnostic accuracy for middle ear infections in this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Otolaryngology
- Neonatology
Background:
- Otitis media and serous otitis media are common in preterm infants.
- Early identification is crucial for appropriate management and to prevent complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of tympanometry as a screening tool for otitis media in preterm infants.
- To assess the reliability and repeatability of tympanometry in the NICU setting.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-six preterm infants in the NICU underwent tympanometry and pneumatic otoscopy.
- Two examiners performed assessments, with results interpreted independently by an audiologist.
Main Results:
- There was poor agreement between tympanometry and otoscopy findings.
- Tympanometry demonstrated low reliability and repeatability in this infant population.
Conclusions:
- Tympanometry is not a suitable screening tool for otitis media in preterm infants.
- NICU nurses should be vigilant for signs of otitis media and refer for expert evaluation and tympanic membrane visualization.