The use of the Cochlear Mini Microphone (MM) as a personal radio system (FM) with young children who are deaf

Abstract

Objectives: This paper describes the background, organization and findings of a project undertaken in 2016-2017, to examine the benefits and challenges of the use of the Cochlear Mini Microphone (MM) by the families of pre-school children with cochlear implants on the Nottingham Auditory Implant Programme.

Methods: The experiences and views of 25 families who used the equipment were obtained and analysed. The information informed subsequent advice, patient literature and professional training.

Results: The MM was viewed to be of benefit by just under half of the families. The attitudes and technical competence of families and local professionals, alongside the age and lifestyle of the children, were identified as the key factors affecting the amount of use.

Conclusion: The insights gained into the challenges and benefits of the MM for this population offered explanations for the limited take-up of the equipment and informed ways to encourage appropriate use

Discussion: Equipment issued to very young children works best alongside specific advice and training, targeted at both families and local professionals. Despite some technical limitations, the availability of a personal radio system was found to be of benefit by some families. It encouraged consideration by both families and professionals, of the potential benefits of early introduction of a personal radio system into pre-school group activities and educational settings.

Keywords:

• Personal radio system
• FM
• Mini Microphone (MM)
• Young deaf children
• Cochlear implants

Acknowledgements

With thanks to Dr Padraig Kitterick, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre (NHBRU) for his advice and support and for the contributions from the team at NAIP, the families and local professionals.

Notes

1 Outreach Support Team – the team is comprised of Specialist Speech and Language Therapists and Teachers of the Deaf.