Purpose: Under the direction of a licensed Audiologist, assesses all aspects of auditory function in children ages birth to 18 years of age and implements a plan of auditory habilitation for those with auditory dysfunction.
Perform comprehensive audiologic assessment, including a comprehensive history, in a manner appropriate to the age and ability of the patient consistent with the range, nature and degree of hearing function to provide information for the differential diagnosis of hearing loss. Differentiate between organic and nonorganic hearing loss through evaluation of total response pattern. Ensure patient safety through contacting a physician, either through the ENT services or ER, of any occurrence or incident relating to patient care to provide care as needed.
Perform responsibilities regarding billing by completing proper forms and documentation. Compile and interpret test results to determine hearing sensitivity for speech and specific frequency signals; speech perception ability; middle ear function; cochlear function; auditory brainstem function; central auditory function and site of lesion information. Relate auditory function to communication needs of the patient to develop a re/habilitative plan and recommendations which address, as necessary, the need for medical consultation to explore etiology and determine need for medical intervention; the need to explore amplification options and the need for enrollment in an ongoing treatment program.
Assesses patient's ability to benefit from amplification and make recommendations regarding amplification needs. Assist family in procuring appropriate amplification and locating ongoing treatment programs/services as needed. Counsel family members concerning the special needs of hearing impaired children to effectively involve parents and other family members in the treatment and management of hearing dysfunction.
Monitor and evaluate patient progress and recommend revisions in treatment plans to meet changing needs of patient. Maintain contact with patient's family members and other members of healthcare and re/habilitative team regarding patient's auditory function and progress. Employ conventional, play audiometry and behavioral observation audiometry techniques as well as electrophysiologic tests.
Uses electroacoustic instrumentation including audiometers, acoustic immittance and evoked otoacoustic emission systems and electrical response test equipment. Maintain records and progress notes detailing diagnosis, habilitation and effect on patients. Prepare reports of findings, interpretation of test results, and recommendations, reviewed and co-signed by a licensed audiologist.
Refer patient for additional testing and treatment according to professional standards of American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), American Academy of Audiology (AAA), hospital policy, and previous experience; participates with other members of the health care/rehabilitation team in the development of rehabilitative programs for patients. Bachelor's degree in related field. Must be in the 4th year of an accredited Doctor of Audiology (AuD) program.
Analytical ability to evaluate hearing dysfunction, develop habilitative plans and evaluate progress. Interpersonal skills needed to communicate effectively with patients, family members and staff members. Ability to observe and accurately collect and interpret clinical data.
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances: Act 34 UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran