When placing an otoblock in the ear canal, it should be positioned how?

The correct method for placing an otoblock involves positioning it beyond the second bend of the ear canal. This positioning is crucial because it helps to create a proper seal within the ear canal, which is necessary for the accurate assessment of the ear's acoustics and the fitting of hearing aids. By placing the otoblock beyond the second bend, you can ensure that it adequately prevents sound from escaping and allows for more effective sound delivery from the hearing aid.

Positioning the otoblock too shallow may not provide an effective seal, which can result in sound leakage and inaccurate fitting. Additionally, placing it centered in the canal could be ineffective in terms of blocking crossover sound or providing an accurate measurement for fitting the hearing aid. Keeping the otoblock within 2 mm of the tympanic membrane could risk overshooting or causing discomfort, as well as potentially damaging the eardrum.

Thus, the best practice is to ensure the otoblock is placed well beyond the second bend, allowing for an optimal fit and functionality of the hearing aid.