A clinical audiologist investigates the causes of hearing loss and helps patients develop a treatment plan. The clinical audiologist will conduct diagnostic tests and interviews with the patient during the evaluation to determine the cause of the hearing loss. They’re also in charge of fitting cochlear implants and prescribing hearing aids.
Loud noise, chronic ear infections, and viral infections can all cause hearing loss. Birth trauma or genetic disorders can also be factors. Hearing loss is a side effect of some medications. The cause of the hearing loss or problem is determined by a clinical audiologist. He or she may also work with patients to help them cope with their hearing loss, prevent further hearing loss, and learn how to use hearing aids properly.
Audiologists work in hospitals and are frequently required to operate medical devices such as audiometers, which measure how loud a patient can hear. They must also maintain accurate patient records. They must keep notes on patient evaluations and track treatments as well as their effectiveness in these records. They must tweak the treatment plan for the best results, and work with insurance companies to secure the necessary equipment for patients.
To detect and prevent hearing loss, doctors and nurses may collaborate with clinical audiologists. A clinical audiologist can perform specialized tests to assist a doctor in diagnosing diseases and disorders. He or she can also make adjustments to hearing aids and other devices so that patients can lead full and productive lives.
Audiologists work with a wide range of patients in the clinical setting. They may be able to help children who have had hearing loss since birth. However, the majority of my time is spent working with older patients who have lost their hearing due to aging. Hearing loss tends to worsen with age, despite hearing aids and rehabilitation. This group of patients can be difficult to work with.
Working as a clinical audiologist in the research field is also an option. Audiologists in this position develop new technologies and treatment studies, as well as train newcomers to the field. There is little direct contact with patients on this path.
The majority of audiologists have a master’s degree and have passed the national licensing exam. In order to distribute hearing aids, some employers may require clinical experience, a current license, and a test. To keep your license and stay up to date on the latest technology, you’ll need to keep learning.