Robert Sheffield, CHT and Kevin I. “Kip” Posey, CHT / July 2021

Introduction

Ear barotrauma (i.e. “ear block”, “ear squeeze”) is the most common complication of hyperbaric treatment. It occurs when the pressure in the hyperbaric chamber is greater than the pressure in the middle ear. It is prevented by patient assessment, patient education, and the appropriate actions of the chamber operator. The chamber operator has an important role in preventing ear barotrauma in hyperbaric patients.

Objectives

On completion of this activity, the participant will be able to:

• Describe the anatomy of the middle ear
• Explain the mechanism of ear barotrauma
• Describe 3 techniques to equalize middle ear pressure

Approved Continuing Education

[Nurse] 1.0 contact hours. Provider approved by the California Board of Nursing. Provider number CEP17094.

[CHT] This program has been reviewed and is acceptable for 1.0 Category A credit hour by the National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology.

To download a free copy of the article click here: Ear Barotrauma: What Chamber Operators Should Know (2021)