Speech & Hearing Assistant- Chilliwack General Hospital (CGH)

Detailed Overview

Performs a variety of speech and hearing duties at assigned locations such as administering routine screenings and procedures, assisting Audiologists and the Speech-Language Pathologists with patient treatments and monitoring and maintaining inventory and equipment;

reviews referrals, collects information, documents and communicates results; works cooperatively with families, professionals, agencies and community members to facilitate a team approach in addressing the patient's communication needs.

Responsibilities Prepares patient materials and related material including communications boards using graphics software.

Monitors the functioning of communication equipment including Canon Communicator Units, Pocket Talkers, electrolarynges (e.

g., Servox), Cooper Rand voice amplifiers and hearing aids by checking function, replacing batteries, cleaning units and making arrangements for repairs as required.

Administers routine screenings and procedures to patients established by Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists including hearing screenings, impedance and pure tone testing, otoacoustic emission testing and the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly (HHIE);

assists with patient treatments under the supervision of a Speech-Language Pathologist such as thermal stimulation, oral-motor exercises, communication exercises and conversation groups.

Makes preparations for procedure such as preparing barium mixtures, and ordering, picking up and organizing dysphagia trays.

Provides information to patients and family members on speech and hearing topics such as communication strategies, benefits of hearing aids and communication devices and available community resources.

Obtains patient information and completes necessary forms for speech and hearing services including the Swallowing Intervention Service.

Assists with inventory control of equipment, materials and supplies by monitoring stock, reporting shortages and preparing necessary forms to requisition;

organizes and cleans materials and equipment. Records workload data for statistical purposes; compiles, maintains, and submits computerized and manual statistics as required.

Performs other related duties as assigned. Qualifications Education and Experience Completion of a Rehabilitation Assistant Program or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Valid BC Driver's License and access to a personal vehicle for business-related purposes. Skills and Abilities Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.

Ability to deal with others effectively. Ability to organize work. Ability to operate related equipment. Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.