Central Auditory Dysfunction and Auditory Processing Disorder

Details

Title

Central Auditory Dysfunction and Auditory Processing Disorder

Type

Stage One

Module code

HPS203

Requirement

Compulsory

Module objective

By the end of this module Clinical Scientists in HSST, with respect to Central Auditory Dysfunction and Auditory Processing Disorder, will be able to analyse, synthesise, evaluate and apply knowledge and perform specialist assessment and treatment of patients demonstrating the attitudes and behaviours necessary for the role of a Consultant Clinical Scientist within a patient focused service and in particular will: 

• appropriately evaluate and diagnose central auditory dysfunction or auditory processing disorder (APD) by careful history taking, examination, and other investigations within the multi-disciplinary team
• select, perform and interpret audiological tests of central auditory dysfunction or auditory processing disorder (APD)
• define a management plan and provide and initiate rehabilitative management.

Knowledge and understanding

By the end of this module Clinical Scientists in HSST will analyse, synthesise, evaluate and apply their expert knowledge required with respect to:

• the anatomy of the central auditory pathways and methods of testing the function of the different parts.
• the various presentations of central auditory dysfunction and APD and the factors involved.
• how to select, carry out and interpret appropriate audiometric investigations.
• how to select and interpret other appropriate investigations and when to refer for further specialist assessment.
• the current limitations in our knowledge of the causes, investigation and treatment.
• the rehabilitative approaches available for such patients including auditory training methods, communication strategies, hearing tactics.
• the psychosocial effects of central auditory dysfunction and APD and the impact on the individual’s ability to work.
• the developmental co-morbidities and neurological causes of APD as well as the possible hereditary and genomic causes.

Technical and clinical skills

By the end of this module Clinical Scientists in HSST will be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of current research and its application to the performance and mastery of a range of technical skills whilst critically reflecting and applying in practice a range of clinical and communication skills to advise and communicate effectively with patients, their families, carers and other healthcare professionals and will:

• take an appropriate history and perform a relevant clinical examination as appropriate to the role of Consultant Clinical Scientist
• select, carry out and interpret audiometric tests of central auditory function.
• select and interpret other appropriate investigations or referral for further specialist assessment and take appropriate action.
• explain the nature of their disorder and potential management options to the patient.
• liaise effectively with other members of the multidisciplinary team regarding the diagnosis and rehabilitative strategies for patients with central auditory dysfunction and APD.
• reflect on the challenges of applying research to practice in relation to these areas of practice and suggest improvements, building on a critique of available evidence.

Attitudes and behaviours

By the end of this module Clinical Scientists in HSST will be expected to evaluate their own response to both normal and complex situations demonstrating the professional attributes and insights required of a Clinical Scientist in HSST working within the limits of professional competence referring as appropriate to senior staff and will:

• recognise the impact of central auditory dysfunction on the patient’s ability to function at home, at work and in education.
• be committed to and support continuous improvement of therapeutic services, with particular reference to auditing practice, evidence based practice, innovative, new and improved technologies.