Materials
- CARL
- CARL EMI ears
- Otoscope
- Different sized specula
Consent
Prior to engaging in any procedure, you must obtain informed consent from the client. For more information, consult with your licensing body.¹
Procedure
Step 1: Choose the proper speculum size. Select the largest speculum that will fit comfortably in your client’s ear.
Step 2: Hold the otoscope with the same hand as the ear you are assessing. For an adult, with your free hand, gently pull the pinna up and back to straighten the canal
Step 3: Using the same hand that is holding the otoscope, brace one or two fingers against the jawline in case of sudden movements.
Step 4: Gently move the otoscope into the proper position to view the ear canal and tympanic membrane. See Figure 1, for an example of how this looks with CARL including an inside view of his ear canal using a video otoscope.
Step 5: Repeat procedure with next side and document the procedure as outlined by your licensing body.
Step 6: Proceed to the next guide; Introduction to Audiometry.

Figure 1
Video Guide
Otoscopy With CARL
Play Now¹ Obtaining consent by the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists (CASLPO) http://www.caslpo.com/sites/default/uploads/files/GU_EN_Obtaining_Consent_ for_Services.pdf