Unit of competency
Modification History
Release |
Comments |
Release 1 |
This version was released in HLT Health Training Package release 2.0 and meets the requirements of the 2012 Standards for Training Packages. Merged HLTAU505/507. Significant changes to the elements and performance criteria. New evidence requirements for assessment, including volume and frequency requirements. Significant change to knowledge evidence. |
Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prescribe and fit hearing devices, evaluate device function and undertake minor repairs and maintenance. It also involves providing instruction and follow up services to clients.
This unit applies to audiometrists.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT |
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements define the essential outcomes |
Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1 Confirm hearing device requirements |
1.1 Interpret outcomes of hearing assessment documentation 1.2 Select style and performance requirements of hearing device(s) based on hearing assessment, client communication and physical needs 1.3 Select appropriate additional device requirements for optimal acoustic performance and client management needs |
2. Take ear impressions |
2.1 Follow personal hygiene and infection control procedures 2.2 Recognise and respond to contraindications to taking ear impressions with otoscopy 2.3 Make referral to other facilities for assessment and treatment 2.4 Select correct sized otoblocks 2.5 Prepare mould material in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions 2.6 Follow correct and safe impression taking procedure 2.7 Examine ear impressions for defects and take new impression if defects found 2.8 Determine any modifications that may be required to ensure a comfortable insertion and fit 2.9 Examine ear condition post impression 2.10 Package ear impressions suitably and send to ear mould manufacturer 2.11 Adapt ear impression processes in line with emerging technologies |
3. Prepare for fitting |
3.1 Prepare information and required documentation 3.2 Prepare the environment for hearing aid fitting 3.3 Check and calibrate equipment ready for use 3.4 Check availability of required personal protective equipment as required |
4. Fit hearing aids |
4.1 Follow manufacturer’s recommended fitting procedures and industry best practice including recognised fitting formulae 4.2 Assess occlusion effect and make appropriate modifications to minimise its effects 4.3 Determine acceptable power output and evaluate in consultation with the client 4.4 Assess hearing device for acoustic feedback and take action to minimise its effects if needed 4.5 Evaluate objective and subjective performance and comfort factors and make modifications as required 4.6 Clean and store equipment and attachments in accordance with manufacturers’ requirements and infection control procedures |
5. Provide advice and resources to the client |
5.1 Instruct client/carer clearly on correct use and maintenance arrangements 5.2 Give client the opportunity to voice concerns in relation to hearing aid fitting and address client’s concerns 5.3 Provide relevant materials to client about their device and services available 5.4 Make informed judgment from client responses about client ability to manage use of device 5.5 Make recommendations for further assessment or treatment in accordance with industry standards |
6. Complete and manage documentation |
6.1 Complete, present and store accurate documentation in accordance with relevant policies and procedures 6.2 Document expected short and long term outcomes |
7. Follow up client |
7.1 Organise client follow up in accordance with industry standards 7.2 Verify and validate success of fitting and modify electroacoustic parameters where appropriate |
8. Maintain and repair hearing aids |
8.1 Check hearing aid and its components manually 8.2 Conduct acoustic listening check of hearing aid 8.3 Complete test box measurements as required or interpret 2cc coupler data 8.4 Complete minor hearing aid repairs in accordance with industry standards 8.5 Arrange major hearing aid repairs when required 8.6 Inform client of the cause of and solution to the device problem and possible ways to overcome this 8.7 Make minor modifications to improve comfort or acoustic performance |
Foundation Skills
The Foundation Skills describe those required skills (language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills) that are essential to performance. |
Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency. |
Unit Mapping Information
No equivalent unit.
Links
Companion Volume implementation guides are found in VETNet - https://vetnet.gov.au/Pages/TrainingDocs.aspx?q=ced1390f-48d9-4ab0-bd50-b015e5485705