Introducing the TAP Ear health screen
Instruction
If you haven’t already, download the TAP Ear health screen form in a new tab or window and print a copy.
If your service uses a different form, discuss this with your supervisor.
The TAP Ear health screen is a simple process to find out if a child or adult has an ear problem and/or difficulty hearing.
The TAP Ear health screen helps identify whether a person may need:
- Dry mopping or ear washout
- A hearing test to check if they may benefit from hearing assistive products that are included in TAP
- Referral to an ear and hearing professional for assessment
- Referral for other assistive products.
Use the TAP Ear health screen form to:
- Guide you through the ear health screen steps
- Record screening results
- Plan actions.
Instruction
Whenever you see this icon it means that the person may need referral.
Space and equipment
To carry out the ear health screen you need a space which:
- Has a chair for the person and a chair for you
- Has a place to wash your hands before and after you screen each person.
You need:
- An otoscope and speculum/s
- Tissues for dry mopping
- Ear washout kit
- One TAP Ear health screen form for each person.
Explain to the person:
You will check for signs of ear problems.
During the screen you will check:
- Their ear health
- If they need to see an ear and hearing professional or
- If you can assist them with a hearing test.
Instruction
Ask:
- Do you have any questions?
- Do you give permission to do the ear screen?
If screening children, ask permission from the child and their parent or caregiver.
Information about the person
The first part of the TAP Ear health screen involves collecting contact information about the person including their name, gender, age, telephone, and address.
Instruction
Start by collecting general information about the person.
Age
Children under five years of age have more complex needs. With permission from their family member refer to an ear and hearing professional.
Instruction
Before doing an ear health screen it is important to know how to:
- Use an otoscope
- Dry mop and washout a person’s ear.
You will learn about these skills in topics three and four.