What are the recommended initial assessments for an adult presenting with hearing loss in primary care?

Initial assessments for an adult presenting with hearing loss in primary care include:

• Excluding impacted earwax and acute infections such as otitis externa, then arranging an audiological assessment (for more information, see recommendation 1. 5. 1) ¹.
• Performing otoscopy to examine the outer ear and tympanic membrane ¹.
• Conducting pure tone audiometry to assess hearing thresholds and differentiate conductive from sensorineural hearing loss ¹.
• Performing tympanometry if indicated, to evaluate middle ear function ¹.
• Assessing relevant symptoms, comorbidities, cognitive ability, physical mobility, and dexterity, as part of a full history ¹.
• Gathering information about the person's hearing and communication needs at home, work, or social situations, and any psychosocial difficulties ¹.