This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit

Essential knowledge

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes knowledge of

A wide range of hearing device types and styles and their performance characteristics

Detailed understanding of linear and nonlinear amplification systems and the principles of at least one of the recognised prescription techniques for both linear and nonlinear hearing devices

Detailed understanding of the various electronic features of digitally programmable and digital hearing devices and their effect on the amplification provided eg compression ratio compression thresholdkneepoint multichannel compression directional and omnidirectional microphones feedback management and cancellation systems noise suppression systems

Ear mould acoustics including venting and tubing and its effect on hearing device prescription

MCL and UCL and their effects on hearing aid selection

Strategies to resolve problems encountered in hearing device fitting according to industry best practice

Essential skills

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to

Accurately analyse and evaluate the acoustic performance of a hearing devices and determine whether this meets specifications using insertion gain and test box equipment

Apply a range of strategies to resolve problems encountered in hearing device fitting according to industry best practice

Complete reports that accurately reflect the fitting and are tailored to the intended reader

Demonstrate at least one linear and nonlinear recognised prescription techniques eg NAL NL NAL RP Fig DSLIO POGO

Establish effective working relationships with external agencies

Fit hearing devices to ensure maximum client comfort and acoustic benefit

Instruct clientcarer on correct use management and care of hearing devices

Maintain and carry out simple repairs on hearing devices

Modify acoustic features of ear moulds and tubing to achieve real ear prescription targets and or improve listening comfort

Operate all equipment and attachments correctly and in accordance with manufacturers instructions including clinical calibration of equipment

Perform MCL and UCL assessments or evaluate maximum power comfort levels

Prescribe hearing devices using the clients communicative needs and audiometric results

Set listening programs in multiple memory hearing devices to meet clients needs in different listening environments

Take ear impressions accurately

Undertake hearing device fitting in accordance with industry standards

Vary electronic features of digitally programmable and digital hearing devices to achieve real ear prescription targets and or improve listening comfort eg compression ratio compression thresholdkneepoint multichannel compression directional and omni directional microphones feedback management and cancellation systems noise suppression systems

Vary the electroacoustic characteristics to achieve hearing devices prescriptive targets

In addition the candidate must be able to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

This includes the ability to

Apply numeracy skills including the ability to interpret data and record client results

Apply problem solving skills required include an ability to use available resources and determine accuracy of test results

continued

Essential skills contd

Ability to

Use interpersonal skills to relate to people from a range of social cultural and religious backgrounds and physical and mental abilities

Use oral communication skillslanguage competence required to fulfil job role in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation Assessors should look for skills in asking systematic questions providing clear information listening to and understanding client areas of concern and demonstrating ethical practice and procedures in dealing with clients Effective verbal and non verbal communication skills with a range of internal and external persons are essential together with competence in English or a community language depending on the client group

Use reading and writing skillsliteracy competence required to fulfil job roles safely and effectively The level of skill required involves reading and documenting clinical information and understanding procedure manuals

Work with others

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria Required Skills and Knowledge the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this competency unit

The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills

Observation of workplace performance is essential for assessment of this unit

Consistency of performance should be demonstrated over the required range of situations relevant to the workplace

Where for reasons of safety space or access to equipment and resources assessment takes place away from the workplace the assessment environment should represent workplace conditions as closely as possible

It is recommended that assessment should be undertaken by more than one assessor

Access and equity considerations

All workers in the health industry should be aware of access and equity issues in relation to their own area of work

All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment

In recognition of particular health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities workers should be aware of cultural historical and current issues impacting on health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues in particular relating to factors impacting on health of Aboriginal andor Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Relevant organisation policy guidelines procedures and protocols

Relevant professional bodies policies and guidelines on the conduct of dispensing hearing aids

Relevant legislative and regulatory documents

Relevant publications of the National Acoustic Laboratories

Access to professional library for accurate and current relevant information

Manufacturers specifications for the use and storage of equipment

Method of assessment

Observation in the work place

Written assignmentsprojects or questioning should be used to assess knowledge

Case study and scenario as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice and integration of skills

Clinical skills involving direct client care are to be assessed initially in a simulated clinical setting laboratory If successful a second assessment is to be conducted during workplace application under direct supervision

Written examination

Related units

This unit is to be assessed in conjunction with the following related units

HLTAUB Develop implement and evaluate an individual hearing program

HLTAU506B Develop, implement and evaluate an individual hearing program

HLTAUB Apply hearing device technology

HLTAU507B Apply hearing device technology

HLTAUB Identify needs for referral

HLTAU508B Identify needs for referral

Holistic assessment practice with other audiometry units of competency is necessary

To develop and evaluate an individual hearing rehabilitation program for adults the individual must link the identification of the communication goals with the development of realistic expectations the prescription and fitting of a hearing devices subsequent to the assessment of hearing and the clients hearing and communication history

Information may include:

Environment may include:

Equipment and instruments may include:

Equipment checking must include:

Personal protective equipment may include:

Clients may include:

Informed consent may include:

Confidentiality of client information may include:

Appropriate recognised prescription technique may include:

Personal hygiene/infection control procedures may include:

Contraindications to taking ear impressions must include:

Referral agencies may include:

Modification techniques must include:

Validation techniques may include:

Relevant policies and procedures may include:

Manual checking of hearing aid and components may include:

Test box measurements may include:

Minor hearing aid repairs may include:

Additional information provided to client during follow up may include: