Audioprosthetic Techniques

Those earning a degree in audio-prosthetic techniques, pursuant to European Union guidelines, must have:
-the scientific bases, and the theory and practice needed to understand biological and hereditary phenomena, the principal methods of function of the organs and related apparati, as well as an understanding of the psychological, social, and environmental aspects of the same;
-an understanding of the evolution of the profession, and the foundations of the audioprosthetic treatment process;
-an understanding of the foundations, trends, and characteristics of the theory and models of audioprosthetic theory and conceptual models;
-an understanding of the standards and regulations that govern the practice and responsibilities of an audioprosthetic technician;
-an understanding of the principles of bioethics, professional ethics, as well as legal and medical standards applicable to the profession;
-the ability to develop an integrated patient-centred approach, critically assessing the pathological auditory aspects in a clinical, patient-care, patient-education, social and ethical setting involved in the prevention, care, rehabilitation, surgical setting, and in recovering a higher degree of wellbeing;
-the expertise and professional standards that orient the diagnostic and rehabilitative process and thought and action with respect to patients and the community, applying these standards in practice at an accredited healthcare facility, clinic or hospital;
-a level of professional, decision-making, and operational autonomy thanks to a programme that takes a holistic approach to health problems, including an analysis of the patient's chemical-physical, biological and social environment;
-essential theoretical knowledge predicated on scientific foundations, with a view toward applying them in one's professional career;
-the capacity to find and critically assess data relating to patient needs for audio-prosthetic aids and the community, setting the objectives for the same;
-knowledge, ability, and experience needed to plan, manage, and assess the need for hearing aids in the patient;
-knowledge, ability, and experience needed to ensure the proper application of all prosthetic and diagnostic prescriptions and treatments;
-the ability to take part in identifying the health-related needs of the individual and the community;
-the ability to pursue one's own continuing professional education;
-the diligence to seek out continuing education, and the tools to do so;
-the ability to cooperate and work with a diverse set of healthcare professionals on team projects and decision-making;
-the ability to properly delegate to, and use the talents of, support staff, and to contribute to their training;
-teaching activities geared toward student clinical experience;
-gain an awareness of the ethics and history of medicine, with particular reference to deafness and audio-prosthetic aids;
-gain an appropriate and effective bedside manner with patients and family members;
-the educational training to assist with student education;
-gain the ability to work and interact proactively on an intra-professional team for the purpose of planning and sharing assessments and rehabilitation for patients with multiple handicaps.