Audiologist

Description

The Audiologist works in the clinic to provide diagnostic hearing evaluations of patients with hearing and balance disorders. When applicable, The Audiologist provides rehabilitative services to patients with hearing aids and bone anchored hearing systems.

Perform evaluations including the following:

• Comprehensive audiometry, including masked and unmasked pure-tone air and bone thresholds, speech reception/awareness thresholds, and word recognition scores.
• Visual reinforcement and conditioned play audiometry.
• Tinnitus matching.
• Special tests, including Stenger, Weber, WIPI, and Speech in Noise testing.
• Immittance audiometry, including tympanometry, acoustic reflex thresholds, and decay, and Eustachian tube function tests.
• Auditory Brainstem Response testing for failed universal newborn screenings, suspected retro-cochlear etiologies, suspected malingerers— including test interpretation.
• Dist distortion product otoacoustic emissions testing and interpretation.
• Canalith repositioning procedures including Semont, Epley, and Barrel-roll maneuvers as needed.

Performs hearing aid evaluations and fittings:

• Measurement of aided and unaided MCLs and UCLs.
• Chooses, orders, and fits appropriate amplification for the patient’s needs.
• Electro-acoustic analysis of hearing aids.
• Takes quality ear impressions for hearing aids and hearing protection.
• Fits amplification to prescriptive targets.
• Verifies amplification through testing, i.e. REM, S-REM, and RECD.
• Troubleshoots amplification devices of all technology levels.
• Performs functional gain testing when required.
• Reprogram amplification devices appropriately based on patient’s complaints.

Patient Management:

• Counsels’ patients and families regarding hearing loss, recommendations for amplification and assistive listening devices, and refers patients for other services related to hearing loss.
• Works closely with ENT physicians and Physician Assistants to provide input on diagnosis, follow-up and referral recommendations.
• Prepares written reports to referring physicians for audio-only patients.
• Maintains accurate, thorough, and timely chart notes that detail patient contact.
• Prepares written reports for schools and deaf educators regarding pediatric hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, and tests.

Performs other related duties:

• Practices effective communication skills and techniques in interacting with patients and staff.
• Knows and applies theoretical knowledge and principles.
• Anticipates the needs of patients and physicians.
• Can make thorough and accurate patient assessments and problem solves accordingly.
• Includes the patient’s care person in teaching programs to ensure adequate care.
• Maintains and/or uses equipment and supplies properly.
• Practices economy in the use of time, equipment, and supplies.
• Completes reports in a timely manner.
• Able and willing to stay after hours to complete assigned work or cover late clinics.
• Able to keep shared and personal work spaces clean and tidy.