How to Buy an Otoscope

An otoscope is an instrument that allows a person to view the inside of another person's ears. The otoscope is basically a magnifying glass and a light. The small tube at the end goes in the ear canal and allows the viewer to see the small pieces of the inner ear bigger than what they really are. An otoscope is usually only used by a doctor. In some cases it can be beneficial for a mother to own an otoscope for home use, such as having a child with chronic ear infections.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet
• Credit card
• Email address
• Printer

1. Comparison shop first. Use a site like Nextag (see Resources) that can give you an overview of which sites sell otoscopes and what they are charging. This will help you get the best price for the highest quality otoscope. Just click on the link at the bottom of this article to get to Nextag. Then type "otoscope" in the search box and click "Nextag Search."

2. Choose an otoscope based on your needs. There is a Dr. Mom otoscope which would be perfect for home use. This would not be good for a professional practice as doctors need a more precise otoscope to detect even the smallest defect in the middle ear. Search through the list and click on the otoscopes that seem to fit your needs. Examine the details before making a purchase.

3. Click "Go to Store" when you find one you want. This will take you to the store that is selling that specific otoscope. Type how many otoscopes you want to buy in the box and click "add to shopping cart." Go to the checkout area and click "checkout."

4. Fill in the credit card information. You will also need to fill out your shipping and billing address. Choose your shipping option. If you want your order delivered faster it will cost more. Finally, type in any promotional codes you may have that could get you a discount. Click submit and you are done.

5. Print out your confirmation email or save it. Keep this confirmation until you have received your otoscope and verified that it is in perfect working condition.

Tips & Warnings

• Search for promotional codes for the store you are shopping from. Just type the name of the store plus the words coupon codes or promotional codes and click search. Many times you will come up with a code that can save you 10 percent or more off of your order.

• Make sure you use the same name as the name on your credit card when ordering or your order will be declined.

Resources

• Nextag