ASHA has a professional responsibility to assure accuracy and best method of practice in its publications. To this end I call attention to a nicely written article on CMV in the May 6, 2008, issue. My attention was drawn to the picture on page 15 with the caption "A toddler has her ear examined with an otoscope as part of important ongoing audiological monitoring." Without question, otoscopic inspection is an important part of any audiological screening or evaluation. However, this photograph shows an incorrect and potentially dangerous method of holding the otoscope. The proper method includes positioning the hand on the patient's cheek, or similar anchoring point, so that sudden head movement does not cause damage to the ear [Ballachanda, B.B. The Human Ear Canal (1995). San Diego: Singular Publishing].
As audiology and speech-language pathology strive to improve their status as independent professions, our professional organizations should not cause us embarrassment by perpetuating such fundamental misrepresentation of our skill base.
We have just provided a stronger offense for those looking for evidence to support the proposition that we are not independent professions and need oversight. The photos also indicate the lack of rigor in peer review of this publication. Because the picture was supplied by a third party or is meant to be an illustrative photo does not excuse this editorial catastrophe. ASHA owes the profession an apology, although this does not alleviate the damage to our professional representation.
David McPherson
Provo, UT
david_mcpherson@byu.edu
Editor's note: Thank you for your scrutiny of this photo. You are correct that it was used in error and misrepresents the safe and appropriate use of the otoscope. The photo was provided by the federal agency that was the source of the article and should have been reviewed more carefully by our staff.