Setting up a paediatric vestibular testing laboratory

Abstract

This paper describes the vision of networked balance testing centres as set out in the Balance Good Practice Guide published in 2009. It provides examples of room design and enabling works. A suggestion for hardware and software specifications for a supra-specialist balance centre is provided. How to design, evaluate and commission such a laboratory will be covered, including brief descriptions of the qualitative and quantitative balance tests used in assessing vestibular function in children, maintenance and training issues. The appendix provides guidance on making a business case, applying for capital bids, option appraisal, writing equipment specifications, bid evaluation, and procurement.

• balance assessment
• specifications
• vestibular laboratory