Audiology Assistant

Analysis of hearing aid performance to identify and troubleshoot any faults. Able to service hearing aids and ear moulds, providing solutions, alternatives and/or replacements. Obtain aural impressions by syringing a silicone compound into the external ear canal safely and with accuracy. As this is an invasive procedure with risk of damage to the patient, effective communication with the patient and manual dexterity are vital.

To have an involved role in the procurement team as led by the procurement officer. To assist in monitoring and maintaining stock levels and help with the ordering, packaging and receipting of earmoulds, hearing devices and consumables. To ensure clinical rooms have adequate stock levels of consumables. Conduct daily stage A calibration checks on all equipment to be included within clinical tasks for the day.

To report any calibration failures immediately to Head of Audiology and the calibration lead and to make safe the affected equipment to ensure that it is not used with patients until remedial action has been successfully implemented. Perform examination of the external ear and ear canal to assess the condition of the external ear canal and tympanic membrane. Recognise contraindications to further treatment (e.g., perforations, ear discharge, blood and/or wax in ear canal) and refer to the appropriate professional, when necessary (e.g., Specialist Audiologist, ENT, GP, Nurse Practitioners). Able to select the appropriate ear mould for the patient, reflecting ear conditions and hearing aid prescription.

Physically modify patients ear moulds to facilitate a comfortable fitting and/or modify acoustic parameters by safe use of drill, buffer and grinding equipment. To conduct telephone reviews for newly fitted hearing aid users. Assist with home visits to housebound patients to provide a full range of Audiological services where access to patients in a domestic setting may be restricted. To provide theoretical and clinical knowledge to support training of Audiology students and trainees on placement.

To present summary data to the department at clinical audit meetings. To provide sensitive advice to patients regarding their auditory status having been referred for consultation by other health professionals including primary care workers, medical consultants, community practitioners and Audiology staff. Such advice is delivered within an emotive atmosphere. To advise on interventions and (re)habilitation programmes based upon autonomous clinical opinion, which may involve referral onwards to relevant intervention programmes.

Responsible for working within the adult team to help deliver the clinical direction to the service, within the boundaries set by the service leads. Some of this clinical work to include lone working at off sites. Be aware of efficiencies of device utilisation and patient benefit outcomes, as well as awareness of DNA rates for the adult service. Opportunity to contribute to research and development programmes in Audiology for UHS.

Maintenance of own audit activity as requirement for continued registration with regulatory bodies.