DOES THE EQUIPMENT LOOK DAMAGED or WORN OUT?
Regularly look at the equipment to ensure it is not damaged in any way.
Cables
Ensure the cable running from the coil to the processor is not becoming brittle or cracked and replace it if necessary. A spare lead is always issued to patients.
Batteries
Ensure the rechargeable batteries are rotated for use so that one is not used all the time. Rechargeable batteries will start to loose their charge after they have been used for a number of years. If this happens please contact the implant centre for replacements. If you have a problem try to identify which battery it is or whether the problem is with the battery charger itself. These can then be replaced as required.
Drybox
The processor should be placed in a drying box regularly (at least once a week) and after every time it is worn in a damp / wet environment. This will prevent the microphone degrading in quality over time due to moisture damage.
Checking the skin under the magnet
The coil has a magnet which holds it in place on the head. The strength of this magnet can be changed if necessary. However it is very important that the magnet is not too strong. It can cause redness, soreness and skin problems which can become serious if left. It is therefore a good idea to check that the implant user’s skin is healthy under the magnet on a weekly basis. If any of the following is present please contact the implant service for advice:
- Redness
- Soreness
- Burning
- Pain
- Swelling
Microphone covers
Some of the processors have covers on the processor microphones in order to collect dirt and dust. These need to be replaced on average every 3 months. Patients will be shown how to do this when the equipment is issued to them, and they are provided with replacement covers. Replacement microphone covers can be obtained from the implant centre by contacting our spares and repairs hotline. (Please note: Oticon Neuro 2 speech processors do not require a microphone cover change).
Changing microphone covers
Nucleus 7 (CP1000)
Kanso
Kanso 2
(Select the link below to learn how to change a microphone cover on a Kanso 2)
Naida (Q70 and Q90) Processors
(Select the link below to learn how the change the cover on a t-mic microphone)
SONNET Processor
Rondo 2
(Please select the link below to learn how to change the Rondo 2 Cover)
Key concepts
- How can I check that the cochlear implant is working?
- What are common issues to look out for?
- What do I do when there is a problem?
- How can I get spare or replacement equipment?
