Job Description

Job Summary:

In accordance with the Mission, Vision and Values, and strategic directions of Provincial Health Services Authority patient safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA, and as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position. Under the general supervision of the BC Early Hearing Program (BCEHP) Regional Coordinator and the working supervision of the Lead Hearing Screener, the Hearing Screener conducts hearing screening tests on newborn infants. The Hearing Screener identifies infants to screen based on preset criteria set by the Early Hearing Program, monitors and troubleshoots computerized hearing screening equipment, reviews edits and disseminates patient materials, documents and communicates results, and schedules and arranges for follow up appointments. Additionally they promote awareness of hearing loss and maximal use/preservation of hearing abilities. The Hearing Screener works cooperatively with families, professionals, agencies and community members to facilitate a team approach in addressing the hearing related needs of newborns and their families.

Duties/Accountabilities:

1. Identifies infants from the general newborn population who are eligible for hearing screening by following the BCEHP protocols and established criteria to determine when screening should be performed on infants and the appropriate method to be used, and communicating determinations to the caregivers.



2. Administers computerized hearing screenings to infants who meet the preset criteria by methods such as cleaning skin, attaching electrodes if needed, inserting ear tips into the ear canal and/or placing earphones over the infants external ears.



3. Documents screening pass or not pass results in patient medical charts and other NICU documentation as required; enters results into the BCEHP data system.



4. Monitors and troubleshoots the functioning of screening and audiology equipment by performing listening checks, replacing batteries, cleaning/disinfecting units; performing minor maintenance and making arrangements for repairs including ongoing calibration.



5. Reviews patient materials by checking that program information is current; and disseminates patient materials including information brochures and correspondence to families.



6. Schedules infants for follow up appointments and refers to the appropriate location for diagnostic hearing assessments. Promotes compliance with follow up appointments by use of the phone, fax and email.



7. Confirms the presence or absence of preset hearing risk factors by methods such as following established protocol and checklists, reviewing patient charts, and observing newborn to confirm the presence or absence of preset hearing risk factors.



8. Communicates screening results and general hearing information to the infant's family or guardian as well as other professionals involved in the infant's care.



9. Monitors stock, supplies and equipment, reporting shortages and preparing necessary forms to requisition for purposes of inventory control.



10. Records workload data for statistical purposes. Completes, maintains and submits computerized and manual statistics.



11. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience



Grade 12, two (2) years' recent related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Skills and Abilities



Ability to keyboard at 40 w.p.m. Knowledge of medical terminology. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Ability to deal with other effectively. Ability to organize work. Ability to operate related equipment. * Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.