How often are calibration and functional checks to be performed on audiometers?

Calibration and functional checks on audiometers are critically important to ensure accurate and reliable testing results. Performing these checks at the start of every test day helps to confirm that the equipment is working properly and within specified standards before any audiometric testing takes place. This regular verification is essential to minimize the risk of errors that could affect patient outcomes.

By ensuring the audiometer is functioning correctly each day, technicians can address any issues promptly, thereby maintaining the integrity of the hearing tests conducted that day. This routine is especially significant because audiometric testing can vary based on a wide range of factors, and having a consistent quality assurance process is vital for patient safety and accurate diagnosis.

While performing checks monthly, weekly, or biweekly might seem sufficient, these intervals do not provide the immediate assurance needed for daily testing scenarios, where any malfunction could lead to incorrect results. Hence, the chosen frequency of checks at the start of each test day is necessary for maintaining the highest standards of audiometric practice.