Verification Considerations 2020 (Q2 2020) (TX-143-24-004)-Verification Considerations 2020 (Q2 2020)

Verification Considerations 2020 (Q2 2020) - Article

Pdf Summary

The article discusses the importance of verification in the fitting of hearing aids. Verification involves objectively proving that the hearing aid is functioning as intended, while validation looks at the outcomes and whether the goals of the user have been achieved. The article cites research that shows a lack of adherence to verification practices in the industry, with only about 40% of users reporting that real ear measures were conducted during their fitting process. This lack of verification can have a negative impact on hearing aid performance and user satisfaction.<br /><br />The article highlights the recommendations of professional organizations such as the American Academy of Audiology (AAA), American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA), International Hearing Society (IHS), Consumer's Reports (CRs), and the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), all of which support the use of verification in hearing aid fittings.<br /><br />The authors discuss various methods for accurate real ear measurement (REM) acquisition, including proper otoscopic examination, equipment and patient positioning, and probe tube placement techniques. They emphasize the importance of calibrating the test environment and selecting appropriate test signals.<br /><br />The article also provides recommendations for verification considerations in open-fit hearing aid fittings. It advises clinicians to use a range of input levels to characterize compression characteristics and ensure proper input signal levels are delivered to the hearing aid microphone. Special considerations are required for sound field calibration in open fittings due to amplified sound leaking out of the ear canal.<br /><br />In summary, the article emphasizes the critical role of verification in the fitting of hearing aids and provides recommendations for accurate and effective verification practices. It encourages clinicians to adhere to best practices and guidelines set forth by professional organizations to ensure optimal hearing aid performance and user satisfaction.

Keywords

verification

fitting

hearing aids

real ear measures

adherence

performance

user satisfaction

professional organizations

calibrating

best practices