Methods of Wax Removal course for GPs

This session will help you to recognise the presence of wax in the external auditory canal and provide a description of the methods for its removal either in general practice, or by the audiologist. It will also discuss the contra-indications to its removal.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Recognise wax in the external auditory canal
• List the steps necessary to remove the wax from the external auditory canal
• Describe various methods of wax removal
• Recall which method of removal is recommended in practice
• Recall that otoscopy is used to check that the wax has been removed
• Recall the contra-indications to wax removal
• List instances when the wax should not be removed

As a primary care practitioner or audiologist, do you currently undertake any procedures to remove wax?

Are you aware of the recommended methods?