Program
Physician Assistant M.S.
Year Approved
2021
First Advisor
Naser, Lisa
Abstract
This paper assesses the medical experiences guardians of deaf or hard of hearing children have after their children are first diagnosed with a hearing loss within the Twin Cities region of Minnesota. Data collection used a mixed methods approach through a survey containing Likert scale questions and opportunities to elaborate on personal experiences. The non-profit organization MN Hands & Voices provided a population qualified to participate in this study who were hearing guardians with a child under ten years old diagnosed within the Twin Cities region of Minnesota. Hearing loss can cause delays in language development if not diagnosed early, and in turn can affect a child’s social skills, self-esteem, learning capabilities in school, and communication abilities (ASHA, n.d.). Results showed that 14 out of 17 respondents had children diagnosed with hearing loss between zero to six months of age. Our survey indicated that, once a child was diagnosed with hearing loss, the care option most frequently offered was hearing aids. The majority of participants felt their child's medical provider only discussed resources and information related to corrective treatment. Most participants felt their child's medical provider offered information on all options for technology related to hearing restoration and were supported by medical providers when receiving a diagnosis of hearing loss.
Degree Name
Masters of Science in Physician Assistant
Document Type
Masterʼs thesis
Recommended Citation
Jaster, H. R., Rudolph, E. R., & Sorensen, M. (2021). Assessment of Medical Experiences of Hearing Guardians With Deaf or Hard of Hearing Children in the Twin Cities [Masterʼs thesis, Bethel University]. Spark Repository. https://spark.bethel.edu/etd/694
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