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Hearing Aid Specialist
Published
Competency-Based Apprenticeship
Industries
O*Net Code
29-2092.00
Rapids Code
2071CB
Req. Hours
0
State
DC
Created
Jul 16, 2021
Updated
Jul 16, 2021
Competency-Based Skills
34 skill sets | 165 total skills
Observes Sanitation Protocols to Protect the Patient/Client and the Practitioner
Recognizes World Health Organization sanitation and sterilization guidelines
Differentiates among disinfectants, virucides, and cleaning agents
Distinguishes between sanitation and sterilization
Explains when and demonstrates how to use disinfectants, virucides, and cleaning agents
Explains when and demonstrates how to use gloves, masks, and other protective clothing
Practices universal precautions
Observes protocols to clean and sanitize equipment and surfaces in the practice environment
Distinguishes between single-use and multiple-use items
Explains when and demonstrates how to sanitize multiple-use items
Explains when and demonstrates how to properly dispose of single-use items
Explains when and demonstrates how to properly dispose of sanitizing agents
Identifies the patient's/client's needs
Identifies and applies the mandatory referral criteria ("Red Flags")
Questions the patient/client and family/caregivers about their concerns
Discovers and documents patient's/client's: Hearing History, Contributory History, Perceptions, Physical Limitations Pertinent to Amplification
Discovers and documents perceptions of the patients/clients family/caregiver
Performs a visual inspection of the patient's/clients ear to identify contraindications for proceeding with the hearing evaluation
Explains the need for performing otoscopy prior to performing audiometric testing
Identifies the landmarks of the external auditory meatus and tympanic membrane
Uses proper otoscopic techniques (including bridging and bracing) to protect the patient/client
Employs proper sanitation and safety procedures
Observes the tympanic membrane, auditory meatus, and pinna to identify potential contraindications
Reports the presence of mandatory referral criteria (e.g. "Red Flags")
Recognizes when cerumen management is required
Documents observations
Performs tympanometry
Explains the importance of conducting otoscopy before tympanometry
Employs proper sanitation and safety procedures
Selects the proper probe tip
Interprets the findings and refer as necessary
Documents findings and data interpretations
Performs audiometric testing
Verifies that ambient noise level of test environments is within ANSI state requirements
Verifies that test equipment calibration is current
Performs daily biological test of equipment
Employs proper sanitation and safety procedures
Demonstrates proper placement of transducers
Instructs patient/client how to respond to the test stimuli
Determines pure tone thresholds and performs supra-threshold measurements (e.g. Uncomfortable Loudness Level [UCL] and Most Comfortable Level [MCL])
Applies effective masking when indicated by audiometric results
Performs speech audiometry, including speech awareness/reception threshold and word recognition testing with masking when indicated by audiometric results
Reports the presence of mandatory referral criteria (i.e., "Red Flags")
Documents audiometric results and data interpretations
Interprets evaluation results for the purpose of patient/client information, hearing instrument candidacy, referral, and/or communication with other healthcare professionals
Describes degrees of hearing loss and applies them to the patient's/clients results
Describes the audiometric findings to the patient/client, family/caregivers, and/or other healthcare professionals
Applies evaluation results to hearing instrument candidacy
Relates evaluation results to a prognosis for improved communication ability
Identifies physical limitations of the patient/client that impact the selection of style/type of amplification
Applies issues of manual dexterity, visual acuity, coordination, numbness, etc. on selection of style/type of amplification
Explains the influence of the patient's/client's ear anatomy on selection of style/type of amplification
Relates the patient's/client's cognitive ability to the recommendations for the style/type of amplification
Explains the potential impact of the patient's/client's medical conditions on selection of style/type of amplification
Documents accurate observations and recommendations
Identifies patient/client preferences for style/type of amplification
Compares and contrasts various styles/types of amplification
Discovers the patient's/client's preferences regarding style/type of amplification
Documents observations and recommendations
Identifies electro-acoustic parameters for amplification
Explains the impact of amplification in various environments
Identifies the patient/client needs and/or wants that can be addressed through use of optional accessories, assisted listening devices, and/or FM systems
Documents recommendations and basis for recommendations
Recommends appropriate style/type of amplification to patient/client
Relates to patient/client and family/caregiver the benefits and limitations of amplification and the specific styles/types of amplification as applied to the patient/client
Explains the impact of circuit drain of the amplifier on battery life
Justifies the recommendation of a particular style/type of amplification based upon the results of the audiometric evaluation and the patient's/client's preferences and lifestyle
Documents findings, interpretations, and recommendations
Performs visual inspection of the patient's/client's ear(s) for otoblock placement
Identifies the anatomy of the external auditory meatus
Applies proper otoscopic techniques to protect the patient/client
Practices proper sanitation and safety procedures
Observes the tympanic membrane, auditory meatus, and pinnae to identify contraindications
Applies the mandatory referral criteria (i.e., "Red Flags") to each patient/client
Judges whether cerumen management is required
Documents findings
Inserts otoblock in patient's/client's ear
Practices proper sanitation procedures
Selects the appropriately sized otoblock
Inserts the otoblock to appropriate depth in the ear canal
Practices proper bracing during insertion
Performs otoscopy to confirm correct placement of otoblock
Takes impression for acoustic coupler, earplug or ear mold
Selects the appropriate type of impression material
Determines the appropriate insertion methodology
Practices proper sanitation procedures
Practices proper safety precautions during insertion
Produces an impression without voids or gaps
Allow adequate curing time
Removes the impression without harming the impression or the client/patient
Performs post-impression otoscopy to determine that no debris, otoblock. residual impression material remains, or excessive irritation exists in ear canal
Documents the impression process and the quality of the ear impression
For both newly ordered hearing aid and hearing aid returned from repair, performs physical and/or electroacoustic check of instrument to verify it is as ordered and operating correctly
Selects a testing method for the hearing instrument check
Practices proper sanitation procedures
Verifies that: Directional microphones are functioning, Distortion is within acceptable parameters, All accessories are included and operational
Documents results
Programs hearing instrument using computerized algorithms or other appropriate methods
Selects appropriate fitting formula
Couples the hearing instrument to the programming device
Uses appropriate audiometric data and programming software for the initial hearing instrument fit
Places hearing instrument in patient's/client's ear and verifies fit
Practices proper sanitation procedures
Visually verifies physical fit of the hearing instrument
Solicits feedback from patient/client regarding comfort of fit
Engages appropriate acoustic feedback control
Modifies hearing instrument and/or ear mold for comfort and proper acoustic performance
Practices proper sanitation and safety procedures
Adjusts electro-acoustic parameters as needed
Adjusts the acoustic coupler as needed
Adjusts subjective parameters based upon patient's/client's preferences
Documents results, recommendations, and actions
Performs validation of patient's/client's aided performance
Uses fitting validation inventories
Uses appropriate tests as a fitting validation method including speech in noise testing
Interprets results of validation inventories and appropriate audiometric testing
Documents results and interpretations
Performs verification of the fitting of the hearing instrument
Performs and interprets real ear measurements
Performs and interprets speech mapping data
Performs and interprets sound field measurements
Documents results and interpretations
Discusses appropriate expectations of amplification with patient/client and family members/caregivers
Explains the realistic expectations and limitations for hearing instrument performance
Describes the purpose of memories/programs, features, and accessories based on the patient's client's audiometric data
Summarizes the life expectancy, recommended maintenance schedule, and potential malfunctions of the hearing instrument
Explains the relationship between hearing instrument cosmetics, power, and acoustic performance
Documents discussions with and recommendations made to the patient/client and family members/caregivers
Discusses use of the hearing instrument with patient/client and family member/caregivers
Instructs patient/client and family members/caregivers on: Care of hearing instrument
Instructs patient/client and family members/caregivers on: How to insert and remove hearing instrument
Instructs patient/client and family members/caregivers on: Battery usage
Instructs patient/client and family members/caregivers on: Demonstrates to the patient/client and family members/caregivers as necessary, how to troubleshoot the hearing instrument
Instructs patient/client and family members/caregivers on: Examines with patient/client and family members/caregivers features of hearing instrument
Instructs patient/client and family members/caregivers on: Reviews with the patient/client and family members/caregivers manufacturer's warnings, specifications, and instructions
Instructs patient/client and family members/caregivers on: Documents discussions with and recommendations made to the patient/client and family members/caregivers
Discusses communication and coping strategies based on the hearing loss with patient/client and family members/caregivers
Explains lifestyle modifications necessitated by patient's/client's hearing loss
Describes physical modifications to the living space necessitated by the patient's/client's hearing loss
Documents discussions with and recommendations made to the patient/client and family members/caregivers
Determines appropriate patient/client assignments to achieve optimum aided performance
Establishes realistic expectations for aided performance
Documents discussions and recommendations
Implements hearing aid programming and coupler adjustments
Establishes use and wearing schedule of hearing instruments
Schedules and implements incremental electroacoustic changes to increase patient/client use tolerance to achieve optimum aided performance
Adjusts coupler as needed for maximum comfort
Documents recommendations and decisions
Discusses auditory rehabilitation with patient/client
Determines appropriate patient/client assignments to achieve optimum aided performance
Review realistic expectations for patient's/client's aided performance
Refers as necessary to other professionals
Documents recommendations and decisions
Discusses with family/caregivers their role in communication strategies
Establishes realistic expectations for patient's/client's aided performance
Instructs on and demonstrates effective communication strategies
Documents recommendations
Discusses with patient/client environmental listening strategies
Explains how patient/client should position him/herself to maximize effectiveness of amplification in various environments
Documents recommendations
Educates the patient/client and family/caregivers on use of assistive devices to complement the hearing instrument
Identifies locations that provide assistive devices
Demonstrates and explains the use of assistive devices
Documents recommendations
Recommends additional resources
Explains the value of additional resources
Documents recommendations
Provides ongoing care for patients/clients
Explains the importance of: Tracking changes in the patient's/client's hearing and health/medications
Explains the importance of: Soliciting the patient's/client's and third-party observations and comments
Explains the importance of: Otoscopy at each appointment
Explains the importance of: Keeping accurate and complete records
Provides ongoing care and maintenance for hearing instruments
Practices proper sanitation and safety procedures
Reprograms hearing instruments: Based upon changes in the patient's/client's hearing
Reprograms hearing instruments: As needed to achieve and maintain patient's/client's optimum aided performance
Modifies hearing instruments to achieve and maintain patient's/client's optimum aided performance
Explains the importance of regularly scheduled maintenance visits
Explains the importance of keeping accurate and complete records
In the event of malfunction, troubleshoots hearing instrument performance
Practices proper sanitation and safety procedures
Inspects the hearing instruments and/or acoustic couplers
Performs listening checks
Performs and interprets electroacoustic analysis
Appraises battery, battery contacts, and battery drain
Documents findings, actions and disposition
Visually inspects patient/client's ear for debris or cerumen build-up, or need for medical referral
Practices proper sanitation and safety procedures
Performs otoscopy
Documents findings, actions and disposition
Performs in-office repairs to hearing instruments
Practices proper sanitation and safety procedures
Modifies or replaces the acoustic coupler
Replaces battery doors, wax guards, microphone cover, etc.
Removes debris from various hearing instrument components
Changes tubing: Uses correct tubing size and thickness
Changes tubing: Uses the correct bonding agent
Identifies when the repair requires a factory repair
Documents findings, actions, disposition and recommendations
Technical Instruction
Professional Training Textbook in Hearing Health Sciences - 86 req. hrs
The Profession
Acoustics
Infection Control
Anatomy and Physiology of the Auditory System (Outer and Middle Ear; Inner Ear and Its Disorders)
Pre-Audiometric Assessment
Pure Tone Audiometry
Speech Audiometry
Immittance Audiometry
Interpretation and Presentation of Test Results
Hearing Instruments
Ear Impressions and Ear molds
Hearing Instrument Fitting
Fitting Verification and Validation
Counseling
Maintenance, Modifications and Repairs
Case Studies
Professional Training Workbook in Hearing Health Sciences - 58 req. hrs
Your Future – Your Profession
Ethics and Laws
Acoustics
Psychoacoustics
Infection Control Principles
The Outer Ear
Disorders of the Outer Ear
The Middle Ear
Disorders of the Middle Ear
The Inner Ear and Auditory Pathways
Cochlear and Retrocochlear Disorders
Exploring the Hearing Loss
Otoscopy and Bracing
Introduction to Audiometric Evaluation
Pure Tone Air Conduction Audiometry
Pure Tone Bone Conduction Audiometry
Masking for Air Conduction
Masking for Bone Conduction
Speech Acoustics
Speech Audiometry
Masking for Speech Audiometry
Additional Testing for the Hearing Instrument
Tympanometry
Audiometric Interpretation
Presenting the Test Results to the Patient/Client and Family
Hearing Instrument History
Hearing Instrument Technology
Hearing Instrument Styles and Applications
Hearing Instrument Electroacoustic Measurements (ANSI Standards)
Hearing Instrument Candidacy
Geriatric and Other Considerations
Ear Impressions
Ear molds and Other Acoustic Couplers
The Delivery
Fitting Verification
Fitting Verification Protocols
Fitting Validation
Counseling
Beyond Hearing Instruments
Maintenance, Modifications and Repair
Professional Training Workbook in Hearing Health Sciences Continued - 34 req. hrs
Your Future – Your Profession
Ethics and Laws
Acoustics
Psychoacoustics
Infection Control Principles
The Outer Ear
Disorders of the Outer Ear
The Middle Ear
Disorders of the Middle Ear
The Inner Ear and Auditory Pathways
Cochlear and Retro cochlear Disorders
Exploring the Hearing Loss
Otoscopy and Bracing
Introduction to Audiometric Evaluation
Pure Tone Air Conduction Audiometry
Pure Tone Bone Conduction Audiometry
Masking for Air Conduction
Masking for Bone Conduction
Speech Acoustics
Speech Audiometry
Masking for Speech Audiometry
Additional Testing for the Hearing Instrument
Tympanometry
Audiometric Interpretation
Presenting the Test Results to the Patient/Client and Family
Hearing Instrument History
Hearing Instrument Technology
Hearing Instrument Styles and Applications
Hearing Instrument Electroacoustic Measurements (ANSI Standards)
Hearing Instrument Candidacy
Geriatric and Other Considerations
Ear Impressions
Ear molds and Other Acoustic Couplers
The Delivery
Fitting Verification
Fitting Verification Protocols
Fitting Validation
Counseling
Beyond Hearing Instruments
Maintenance, Modifications and Repair
Trainer Manual - 19 req. hrs
Your Future – Your Profession
Ethics and Laws
Acoustics
Psychoacoustics
Infection Control Principles
The Outer Ear
Disorders of the Outer Ear
The Middle Ear
Disorders of the Middle Ear
The Inner Ear and Auditory Pathways
Cochlear and Retro cochlear Disorders
Exploring the Hearing Loss
Otoscopy and Bracing
Introduction to Audiometric Evaluation
Pure Tone Air Conduction Audiometry
Pure Tone Bone Conduction Audiometry
Masking for Air Conduction
Masking for Bone Conduction
Speech Acoustics
Speech Audiometry
Masking for Speech Audiometry
Additional Testing for the Hearing Instrument
Tympanometry
Audiometric Interpretation
Presenting the Test Results to the Patient/Client and Family
Hearing Instrument History
Hearing Instrument Technology
Hearing Instrument Styles and Applications
Hearing Instrument Electroacoustic Measurements (ANSI Standards)
Hearing Instrument Candidacy
Geriatric and Other Considerations
Ear Impressions
Ear molds and Other Acoustic Couplers
The Delivery
Fitting Verification
Fitting Verification Protocols
Fitting Validation
Counseling
Beyond Hearing Instruments
Maintenance, Modifications and Repair
Ethics Laws and Rules - Webinars - 3 req. hrs
How to Avoid the Top Ethics Pitfalls for Hearing Healthcare Professionals
Ethics: Exercise (or Exorcise) Legal and Ethical Dilemmas in Your Hearing Healthcare Practice
Ethics and Contractual Analysis for the Hearing Healthcare Professional
IHS Study Guide for the written licensing exam - 6 req. hrs
Provides the apprentice important information about taking the written licensure examination, including specifications of the examination, the competency model for hearing aid dispensers, learning descriptions, and a sample test questions.
State Licensing Laws and Regulations - 21 req. hrs
Review of the state of intended licensure’s laws and rules, which may include the scope of practice, license renewal process and requirements, consumer protections, unprofessional conduct, disciplinary and complaint procedures, and hearing testing, equipment and quality control, and retention of records requirements.
Federal Rules Governing Hearing Aid Devices - 3 req. hrs
Provides rules related to Professional and Patient Labeling and Conditions for Sale, including FDA Red Flags requiring referral to a physician, important disclaimers for prospective purchasers, and rules regarding hearing aid sales to children.
Infection Control in the Audiology Clinic (2nd Ed. or Later) Bankaitis, A.U and Kemp, Robert. (2005) Missouri: Oaktree Products - 6 req. hrs
Infection Control
The Immune System
Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
HIA/AIDS – The Catalyst of Change for Infection Control
Regulatory Agencies
Infection Control Principles and Requirements
Basic Infection Control Procedures
Infection Control for the Most Common Audiology Procedures
Infection Control and Cerumen Management
Infection Control Procedures in the Hearing Aid Clinic
Infection Control and Cochlear Implants
Introduction to Audiology (11th Ed. or Later). Martin, Frederick and Clark, John. (2011). New York: Allyn & Bacon - 19 req. hrs
Elements of Audiology
Hearing Assessment
Hearing Disorders
Management of Hearing Loss
Fitting and Dispensing Hearing Aids Taylor, Brian and Mueller, H. Gustav, CA: Plural Publishing Inc. (2011) - 11 req. hrs
Basic Psychology of Hearing Loss in Adults
Acoustics at the Speed of Sound
Basic Anatomy and Physiology of the Ear
Measurement of Hearing
Hearing Disorders and Audiogram Interpretation
The Hearing Aid Selection Process
All About Style: Hearing Aids and Ear molds
Hearing Aids: How They Work!
Advanced Hearing Aid Features
Outcome Assessments and Post fitting Issues
“Selling” Hearing Aids: It’s Not a Bad Thing!
Sandlin’s Textbook of Hearing Aid Amplification, Metz, M.J.; Plural Publishing, Inc. (2014) - 5 req. hrs
A Historical View
Speech Perception and Hearing Aids
Custom Hearing Aid Ear shells and Ear molds
Principles of High-Fidelity Hearing Aid Amplification
The Many Faces of Compression
Use of Directional Microphone Technology to Improve User Performance in Noise
DSP Hearing Instruments
From Analog to Digital Hearing Aids
Technical Considerations for Sound Field Audiometry
Psychology of Individuals with Hearing Impairment
Considerations for Selecting and Fitting of Amplification for Geriatric Adults
Hearing Technology for Children
Principles and Clinical Utility of Hearing Aid Fitting Formulas
Real Ear Measures
Making Hearing Aid Fitting Decisions
Inventories of Self-Assessment Measurements of Hearing Aid Outcomes
Assistive Technologies for the Hearing Impaired
Cochlear Implants
Fitting Options for Adult Patients with Unilateral Hearing Loss
Future Considerations
Interpersonal Communication: Relating to Others, 8th Ed. or Later Beebe, S.; Beebe, S.; and Redmond, M.; Pearson (2016) - 5 req. hrs
Interpersonal Communication Foundation
Interpersonal Communication Skills
Interpersonal Communication in Relationships
Learning to Hear Again; An Audiologic Rehabilitation Curriculum Guide, 2nd Ed. or Later; Wayer, D.S.; and Abrahamson, J.E., Hear Again (2000) - 2 req. hrs
Better Communication and Hearing Aids: Guide to Hearing Aid Use
Better Communication Through Action: Communication Strategies
Better Communication Through Observing: Speechreading
Additional Activities and Exercise
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) Privacy and Security Rules - 8 req. hrs
Privacy Rule 45 CFR Part 160
2013 Omnibus Rule
Security and Privacy 45 CFR Part 164
