2021HSCShort answer

Q25 (c)

3 marks

Question

A patient visited an audiologist for a hearing test. The audiologist tested both ears at specific frequencies. The volumes at which each frequency could be heard are shown. It is discovered that there is a complete and permanent blockage of the outer ear, but the cochlea is still fully functional. Justify the use of a suitable technology to assist the patient’s hearing.

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Solution

Marks:
3 - Justifies the use of a suitable technology to assist hearing
2 - Outlines a relevant hearing technology
1 - Provides relevant information on any hearing technology

Sample answer:
Bone conduction implants would be the most suitable technology for this patient. The blocked outer ear needs to be completely bypassed, and bone conduction works by detecting sound waves via a microphone, and relaying it to a sound processor that converts the waves into vibrations. These vibrations are transferred directly to the cochlea in order to hear the sound and so improve the patient’s hearing.

Supplied marking guidance · human reviewed

Compare this with your working, not only your final sentence.

Syllabus alignment

Module 8 · Non-infectious Disease and Disorders

Technologies and DisordersEvaluate a technology used to manage or assist with a disorder.
Technologies and DisordersInvestigate assistive technologies for hearing loss, visual disorders and kidney failure.

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