Newborn Hearing Screener

Key results from the job holder To identify new-born babies who require screening by liaising with maternity staff. The post holder will be responsible for screening babies born at local hospitals at Outpatient Clinics in the local community. Keep parents, team members and other health care professionals informed of all relevant information in relation to Trust and National protocols. To provide accurate and detailed information about the screening process to parents in order to obtain informed consent.

Responsible for daily workload planning to ensure that NHSP process runs effectively. Carry out hearing screening of babies within the Post-Natal Ward, Delivery Suite, SCBU and Community Clinics using portable equipment (Automated Otoacoustic Emissions test & Automated Auditory Brainstem Response test) and accurately record the clinical test data. Following the screening test, transfer the clinical and test data onto the NHSP database (S4H). Ensure accurate test results are given to parents and other health care professionals and filed in medical notes where appropriate.

Arrange referrals to Audiology Department for diagnostic testing when appropriate, dealing sensitively with parental concerns. General Ensure that patients and their families are treated with dignity and respect and are treated as individuals at all times. Identify those individuals who may require the services of an interpreter and make appropriate arrangements to ensure effective communication at all times. Undertake training and maintain an awareness of Child Protection issues and adhere to local policies regarding raising concerns.

Monitor stock levels of consumables and arrange for items to be ordered in a timely manner. To promote a professional, welcoming and caring environment. To promote a family friendly approach to parents and health care staff. To maintain up to date knowledge of procedures, protocols and policies (local and national) relevant to the post.

To maintain the confidentiality of babies and their families at all times in compliance with the Data Protection Act. To undertake and record daily equipment checks and calibration to ensure all screening equipment is working to protocols. Ensure safety and security of equipment at all times and report any concerns / faults to the manager. Training and Development To undertake initial training, organised locally and nationally, to cover all aspects of NHSP.

Undertake a practical NHSP assessment (Observed Structured Clinical Exam) following training. Complete a Level 3 Diploma for Health Screeners (Newborn Hearing) Attend any appropriate national training and meetings. Attend all mandatory training as required by the Trust Attend local staff meetings and team briefings. To take personal responsibility for keeping up to date with all aspects of the role for own training needs.

To work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team and ensure any concerns or issues are referred to the manager to ensure that effective working relationships are maintained at all times. Participate in departmental audit activities and in the development of evidence based practice within the department as required. To provide supervision, following training, for new screeners if required.