Geisinger's Department of Audiology provides diagnostic and rehabilitative care to patients with hearing loss and balance disorders. The intent is to preserve the highest standards of integrity and ethical principles as established by the code of ethics of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association in accordance with the goals and objectives of the Geisinger Health System. Diagnostic Audiology Basic audiometry Testing that will help determine the nature and degree of hearing loss. Immittance audiometry Helps to assess the status of the middle ear system. Identifies possible fluid conditions. Auditory brain stem response (ABR) Test administered to detect a problem of the hearing nerve that sends sound to the brain. Otoacoustic emissions Assesses the status of the outer hair cells of the inner ear which can contribute to determining degree of hearing loss. Electronystagmography (ENG) Helps to assess the balance function of the inner ear. Pediatric Audiology The audiology staff is dedicated to the early identification and rehabilitation of hearing loss in infants and children. A battery of tests and procedures is utilized to assess the nature and degree of hearing loss. Recommendations for management are made when a hearing loss is identified. Some of the procedures we use are listed below: * High-risk registry * Central auditory processing testing (available at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Wilkes-Barre only) * Pediatric auditory brain stem response testing * Otoacoustic emissions * Acoustic reflex testing * Behavioral observation audiometry * Play audiometry * Hearing aid fittings * Education referrals Rehabilitation Hearing aid consultation Once it has been determined that a patient would benefit from a hearing aid, the audiologist will explain the different styles of hearing aids, how they work, and where and how they can be obtained. Hearing aid dispensing If a patient chooses to obtain their aid from Geisinger, a hearing aid will be selected and fit for the patient's specific hearing needs. Information and help in learning to adjust to a hearing aid is available through this program. Assistive Listening Devices There are many devices other than hearing aids available to help hard of hearing people in their everyday lives. Information and demonstration of devices such as phone amplifiers, special doorbells and smoke alarms are available. Tinnitus Masker Consultation Many people experience hear noises such as ringing or buzzing, referred to as tinnitus. Once it has been determined that there is no medical management for this condition, a patient can be seen by an audiologist for management of tinnitus through masking techniques, amplification and stress management referrals.