What should a hearing instrument practitioner advise a patient with a PTA of 88 dB HL in the right ear and 92 dB HL in the left ear?

The choice to counsel on measurable benefits of hearing instruments is particularly appropriate for a patient with a pure-tone average (PTA) of 88 dB HL in one ear and 92 dB HL in the other ear. Individuals with these levels of hearing loss often experience significant challenges in understanding speech, particularly in background noise. However, they can still benefit from hearing aids, which can enhance their ability to perceive sounds, improve communication, and overall quality of life.

Hearing aids can be programmed to provide specific gain, helping to amplify sounds to a level that may be more accessible to the patient. For those with moderate to severe hearing loss, as indicated by the PTA values, counseling about the features of hearing aids—such as directionality, noise management, and telecommunication options—can help set realistic expectations and demonstrate how these devices can assist in everyday situations.

It's also vital to discuss the measurable benefits, such as improved speech understanding and social engagement, which can occur even with significant hearing loss. This ensures that the patient understands that while there may be limitations, hearing instruments can still provide valuable assistance in enhancing their auditory experiences.