Table 1.

Content of the ear and hearing health training program for primary health-care workers

1. Introduction to ear and hearing health and disorders

Common causes of hearing impairment

The effects of hearing loss

Common predisposing/risk factors for hearing impairment/loss

2. Ear hygiene and first aid

How to keep the ears clean

Complaints of earwax and advices to give

Complaints of pain in the ear and first aid

How to prevent ear infections children

Noise as a hazard to the ear

Ototoxic medications

3. Practice-based skills

Detection and diagnosis of simple ear problems

Problem-solving techniques/use of the headlight

How to perform ear syringing

How to dry mop the ear canal

How and when to perform simple wick dressing using local materials

Red flags and referrals to hearing health professionals

Understanding simple topical drug treatments

4. Ear and hearing health promotion and counseling

Introduction to ear care promotion

Stigma and discrimination

Personal hygiene and effects on ear infections

Introduction to counseling

Harmful traditional practices

Raising awareness in the community and in schools