Looking for wax removal? Please do your research

When I trained in ear wax removal in 2016, I already had a 4 year BSC audiology degree, and 9 years of Audiology experience. I completed 2 MSc modules in wax removal – one in microsuction, one in manual removal and theory of wax removal. I submitted assignments. I then had shadow and be shadowed by a Specialist Ear Care Nurse and then needed to complete a log book of procedures that I had independently carried out, observed by the Ear Care Nurse, and signed off by a department Ear Nose and Throat Consultant. I believe that it is a similar process for Nurses trained in the NHS in ear wax removal, with a long supervision period before practicing independantly.

It’s scary that there are training companies out there convincing people that they are safe to perform this procedure after a 1 or 2 day course.

I have seen a surprising number of patients who are anxious about wax removal because they have had a previous bad experience. I have seen perforated ear drums, abrasions in the ear canal, and missed anomalies in the ear history or in the ear, that should have received further medical investigation.

Ear wax removal should not just be a quick procedure – this advert suggests this is a 15 minute procedure and promises applicants that they can earn up to £100 every 15 minutes. I can assure you that this is not the case! high quality equipment, single-use consumables and adequate insurance and infection control materials claws back a large percentage of the wax removal fee. Adverts like this attract applicants with no previous experience, who are going into this for the high income that is promised – not for the job satisfaction of providing relief for a patient and setting them on their way to improved hearing and ear care.

If you are looking for ear wax removal, please look at the credentials of and qualifications of the professional offering this service.