We are happy to announce that we will also be providing an Audiology Front of House Course from Jan 2027 (21st Jan 2027 being the first course date )
As a former Adult Service Lead in the NHS as well as working in the private sector I know the importance and how much difference to the staff and clients a good front of house administrator is. They are one of the most critical people in your business whether it be NHS or private. They are the first port of call for a client entering an audiology area, and reflect your ethos and belief system. A good front house administrator is the difference between a well running practice and one that struggles. Our aim is to teach them the skills to be up and running and effective member of staff as soon as possible so that they and you can shine.
About the Course
An attendance certificate is awarded to those who attend the 1-day course for clerical staff to work in audiology. This course teaches theoretical knowledge as well as providing practical training. No previous background is needed in audiology.
Administrative staff are the foundation of any good audiology service, private or NHS, without their critical support services would not function. The course is structured to increase their understanding of the field they are working in, interact with, and understand audiology-based software they may be using. How to deal with clients with hearing loss. Understanding their audiograms. Basic otoscopy and anatomy of the ears minor hearing aid repairs and checks and how to understand and explain the differences between hearing aids
Scope of Practice
Otoscopy, minor repairs should only be undertaken by those whose job description specifically includes it, and where an employer has identified who is liable in the event of any claim for accident or injury etc.
This one-day training course prepares delegates to work in the field of audiology and support their audiology colleagues.
Otoscopy shall be carried out by the delegate to decide whether contraindications exist. This enables the front of house staffer to direct the client’s next appointment (or refer to an appropriate member of staff or health professional) and reduce unnecessary bookings; as does the ability to do minor repairs. This reduces appointment strain on both staff and clients.
Also, introduction to audiology software, this allows particularly the new staffer to start their administrative position with a knowledge of software they will be using. Please note that we cannot teach every single piece of software being used but we will focus on the major pieces of software used by audiology. There are similarities that can easily be adapted across to different platforms.
Overview
The course is both practical and theoretical components.• Understanding the audiogram and hearing loss. Teaching staff to be able to understand and explain basically an audiogram, also how to deal with clients that have a hearing loss (with and without additional needs)
• Learn Basic Otoscopy so that staff are able to check client’s ears for wax and other non- complex issues and to refer on appropriately to other staff members or health professionals.
• Familiarisation with audiology-based software – booking appointments, printing appointment and other letters,
• Compare Hearing Aids: Compare and contrast different types of hearing instruments and their features, which will aid in answering client questions more effectively and confidently.
• Perform Maintenance: Acquire the skills necessary to safely perform basic hearing aid maintenance, adding an additional layer of service for clients.
Aims and Learning Outcomes
• Understand hearing loss and audiograms
• Basic otoscopy in order to check ears for wax or infection and to refer onto other staff or health professionals
• Understand the difference between hearing aid types and manufacturers
• Be able to do basic repairs such as retubing, checking aids if they work and cleaning hearing aids, checking earmould
• Basic knowledge/introduction of audiology software that are used in audiology practices – booking appointments, adding new clients, printing letters
• Understanding what occurs in each type of audiology appointment in order to book the correct appointment type.
Reading and Homework prior to course
BSA Recommended Procedure (2022) Ear Examination
https://www.facebook.com/tracyjameshearing/videos/otoscopy/201024418073166/
How to perform ear examination to BSA Recommended Procedure https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yRRaP5k__8
https://elizabeth-foundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Lesson-1-The-Human-Ear-Structure-and-function-lesson.pdf
https://www.stgeorges.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/How-To-Read-Your-Hearing-Test-Results.pdf
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to prepare for the course?
You will be given pre-course homework material to bring with you on the day. You will also be provided with course material handouts and presentations electronically. You need to ensure you are able to review the notes in order to consolidate your learning. The course is in-depth and will provide you with a lot of new information.
How will I be assessed?
There is no assessment for this course as competency cannot be achieved in one day. Masking requires a significant amount of practice to be done competently and reliably.
Will I need to take part in the practice sessions?
We like (if possible) for all delegates to take part in the practical sessions, so that you can practice on each other. All delegates will have their ears checked on the day to ensure that their ears are safe for otoscopy. When practicing on the course, all delegates will be under close supervision.
You will be asked to fill out a consent form for other delegates to practice the technique on you. Consent can be withdrawn at any time, either verbally or in writing. Do let me know if you think you will not be able / do not consent to take part.
Where are the courses held
Newbury based courses are held either at Newbury Museum, Wharf St Newbury RG14 5AP or Waterside Café Waldegrave Place, Northbrook Street, Newbury RG14 1DS. Both are located close to the train station. Please note for the museum there is only paid parking available and this also the best place to park for the Waterside Café also. Both venues are wheelchair accessible. You will be made aware prior to the course of the venue. In house courses will be run at their locations. They run between 9am-4pm
Once I am awarded the certificate what happens next?
Competency can only be maintained with continuing practice and review. We recommend that you start out practicing with supervision (remote or direct) until you and/or your supervisor agree you are able to carry out repairs and otoscopy etc. on your own. At all times you should be aware and adhere to your scope of practice (see above).
Are there any other courses I can do
There is a BSA certificate available in impression-taking in adults (over 5 years) also a BSA certificate for children under 5; Hearing surveillance (2 days) and Tympanometry. In-house course in masking is also available. TJ Audiology Training can also provide and design tailor-made courses. Please contact Louise Hart on louise@tjaudiology.com or info@tjaudiology.com for more information.