What should you know about the Welch Allyn pocket otoscope ophthalmoscope set?

An otoscope provides light and magnification for the outer ear, ear canal and eardrum. A clinician may look for swelling, discharge, trapped fluid, wax or changes to the eardrum. The ophthalmoscope attachment is designed for a focused view of eye structures such as the pupil and the back of the eye. Findings are interpreted alongside symptoms and the rest of the examination; the device itself does not diagnose an illness.

Tell the clinician when symptoms began, whether they affect one or both ears or eyes, and whether there has been fever, injury, discharge, reduced hearing or a change in vision. Do not put cotton buds, drops or other objects into a painful ear unless a clinician has advised them. During a child assessment, keep the child calm and explain that the lighted instrument will be placed at the entrance of the ear, not pushed deeply.

A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can help assess new ear or eye symptoms. For a child, a [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) may be appropriate. Read more about an [Otoscope](/technology/otoscope/).

Arrange prompt medical assessment for severe or worsening ear pain, fluid or blood from the ear, sudden hearing change, an eye injury, new loss of vision, marked eye pain, or swelling around the eye. Seek urgent help if symptoms follow a significant injury or are accompanied by confusion, weakness or difficulty speaking. A home view through an instrument should not delay care when these warning signs are present.

Ask what the examination showed, whether the eardrum and ear canal were visible, whether the eye view was complete, and what symptoms should prompt a review. You can also ask whether any drops, hearing check or eye assessment is needed.