Clinical audiologists diagnose and treat hearing loss, often caused by loud noises, infections, genetics, or medications. They prescribe hearing aids and cochlear implants, work with patients to prevent future hearing degeneration, and keep accurate records. They may also work in research. A master’s degree and national exam are required, along with continuing education.
A clinical audiologist works to find the causes of hearing loss and develops a treatment plan for patients. During the course of an evaluation, the clinical audiologist will perform diagnostic tests and patient interviews to determine the source of the hearing loss. They are also tasked with prescribing hearing aids and installing cochlear implants.
Hearing loss can occur due to exposure to loud noises, chronic ear infections and viral infections. Genetic disorders or birth trauma can also be causes. Some medications can affect hearing in patients. A clinical audiologist determines what factor caused the hearing loss or problem. He or she may also work with patients to teach them ways to cope with the loss, prevent future hearing degeneration, and teach them how to use hearing aids properly.
Audiologists work in clinical settings and often need to operate medical devices such as audiometers that measure what the patient hears. They must also keep accurate records of their patients. In these records, they should take notes of patient assessments and keep track of treatments and their effectiveness. They must adjust the treatment plan to have the most positive effect and work with insurance companies to secure the necessary equipment for patients.
Doctors and nurses can work with clinical audiologists to help identify and prevent hearing loss. A clinical audiologist can administer specialized tests that help the doctor diagnose certain diseases and disorders. He or she can also adjust hearing aids and other devices so that patients can continue to live full and productive lives.
In the clinical field, audiologists will work with a wide range of patients. They may work with children who have suffered from hearing loss since birth. Most of the time, however, is spent working with older patients who have lost their hearing as a result of age. This group of patients can be challenging because hearing loss tends to decrease further with age, despite hearing aids and rehabilitation.
It is also possible for a clinical audiologist to work in the research field. In this capacity, audiologists work on new technology and treatment studies, as well as teaching others entering the field. This path offers little direct contact with patients.
Most audiologists hold a master’s degree and have passed the national exam required to practice in the field. Some workplaces may require clinical experience, an up-to-date license and a test to distribute hearing aids. Continuing education is required in this field to remain licensed and abreast of the latest technologies.
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