Audiology
RESA 2 employs a certified audiologist who provides many services to the children of the region. For convienience, there are two locations
where services can be provided - the RESA 2 Office on McCoy Road in Huntington, WV and at the Mingo County Vocational Center in Delbarton, WV. Services provided include:
HEARING EVALUATIONS
Complete audiological evaluations are provided to determine the type and degree of hearing loss.
ACOUSTIC IMMITTANCE AUDIOMETRY
Acoustic immittance testing assesses the function of the middle ear system. Information can determine presence of foreign objects, impacted cerumin (ear wax), otitis media (fluid), perforations of the tympanic membrane (eardrum), and other medical conditions.
PEDIATRIC AUDITORY TESTING
Visual reinforcement auditory testing is available to determine hearing levels for babies 6 to 30 months old.
HEARING AID CHECKS & ACCOUSTICAL ANALYSIS
Equipment is available to electroaccoustically test and record the performance of any type of hearing aid. Hearing aids are also evaluated while worn to determine which model and brand provides the best results for an individual. (Computer Sound Analysis)
CENTRAL AUDITORY TESTING
To determine the presence of auditory perceptual problems.
NOISE SURVEYS
Equipment is available to measure ambient (general room) noise levels.
AUDITORY TRAINER UNIT CHECKS
Auditory trainer units (ATU's) are used by the hearing-impaired student to maximize their residual hearing (hearing that is present). They amplify only the primary speech signal, improving the signal-to-noise ratio for the listener. The units are internally adjusted regularly throughout the school year by the Audiologist. Recent audiological results are necessary prior to the adjustment of the ATU.
EARMOLD IMPRESSIONS
The earmold is an inherent part of both a hearing and an auditory trainer unit. It alters the amplified signal and can be deliberately modified to improve the signal for the wearer. The Audiologist takes earmold impressions to have processed into an earmold.
HEARING SCREENINGS
Consultative assistance is provided to enhance each county's screening program.
INSERVICE TRAINING PROGRAMS
The Audiologist is available to provide inservice training to speech/language pathologists, teachers, parents, and other personnel.