Is it considered good practice to use the same speculum to view both ears?

Using the same speculum to view both ears is not considered good practice due to hygiene and infection control concerns. Each ear can have different levels of cerumen (earwax), bacteria, or other contaminants that may be present in the ear canal. By using a separate speculum for each ear, clinicians minimize the risk of transferring any infectious agents or debris from one ear to the other. This practice aligns with standard clinical protocols aimed at ensuring the safety and health of patients.

In a clinical setting, maintaining strict hygiene standards is crucial not only for patient safety but also for maintaining a professional standard of care. Using a different speculum for each ear helps in upholding this standard. Overall, this practice reflects an understanding of infection control principles fundamental to audiology and hearing aid dispensing.