Definition
Under general supervision, performs diagnostic, evaluative, and therapeutic audiological services for residents in a state institution; in some settings may also provide speech and language services to residents in a state institution; performs related work as required.
The work examples and competencies listed below are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be the primary basis for position classification decisions.
Work Examples
Conducts behavioral and conventional pure-tone and speech audiometry tests on residents.
Conducts other evaluative tests on residents in order to measure the middle ear function.
Conducts auditory discrimination tests on residents.
Conducts special tests on residents in order to assess central auditory ability.
Writes goals and objectives in order to document a planned program of therapy by using observations, test results, and professional judgment.
Writes monthly and annual reviews and assesses the extent to which the resident has reached goals/objectives.
Makes referrals to otolaryngologists, physicians, and other audiologists for further evaluation and diagnosis.
Obtains proper hearing amplification equipment from hearing aid dealers.
Conducts hearing aid evaluations on residents in order to choose proper amplification devices.
Conducts electro-acoustic tests on hearing aids in order to assess proper functioning.
Performs routine calibration checks on audiometric equipment.
Provides aural rehabilitation services to residents by teaching speech reading, sign language or use of hearing aids.
Instructs professional interdisciplinary and sub-professional living unit staff in the care and use of the hearing aid.
Teaches sign language to interdisciplinary and sub-professional living unit staff.
Consults with parents and other treatment staff in order to inform them of matters relating to the resident’s speech and hearing problems.
Attends treatment team meetings and confers with medical, nursing, professional treatment, and living unit staff.
Performs speech/language-related services in order to provide evaluation and therapy to residents with communication disorders as required.
Competencies Required
Knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the ear and speech mechanism.
Knowledge of the physical, environmental, and psychological aspects of intellectual disabilities and how they relate to auditory disorders.
Knowledge of diagnostic and evaluative tests and techniques of speech, language and auditory disorders.
Knowledge of function and use of audiometric equipment such as audiometer, hearing aid test box, impedance bridge and meter, tape recorder, and electronic measuring devices.
Knowledge of treatment techniques used in improving the communications skills or residents with auditory disorders.
Knowledge of Intermediate Care Facility Mental Retardation standards of Title XIX as they pertain to audiological services.
Knowledge of institutional procedures for keeping treatment-related records.
Knowledge of basic statistical measures including mean, median, and standard deviation.
Ability to identify and evaluate communication problems resulting from auditory disorders.
Ability to determine appropriateness of referring residents to otolaryngologists, physicians, psychologists, or other audiologists.
Ability to interpret statistical data such as mean, median, and standard deviation.
Ability to instruct auditory handicapped individuals in developing desirable and effective communication skills.
Ability to instruct and lead other professional staff in conducting evaluative and diagnostic tests and treatment techniques.
Ability to work with other interdisciplinary staff in order to effectively coordinate all aspects of a treatment program.
Ability to write and maintain records and reports on resident's progress.
Displays high standards of ethical conduct. Refrains from dishonest behavior.
Works and communicates with all clients and customers providing professional service.
Displays a high level of initiative, effort, attention to detail and commitment by completing assignments efficiently with minimal supervision.
Follows policy and cooperates with supervisors.
Fosters and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity and team spirit throughout the organization.
Exchanges information with individuals or groups effectively by listening and responding appropriately.
Education, Experience, and Special Requirements
Licensure as an Audiologist by the Iowa Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology Examiners;
OR
possession of a Temporary Clinical License or letter of temporary approval as issued by the Iowa Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology Examiners.
Notes
At the time of interview, applicants referred to Glenwood and Woodward State Hospital-Schools will be assessed to determine if they meet federal government employment requirements as published in the Federal Register, Section 20-CFR- 405.1101.
Effective Date: 03/12 BR