Hearing Loss Cochlear Implants and Surgical Treatments Test

Question 1

A cochlear implant differs from a hearing aid primarily in that it:

Accepted Answer

Bypasses damaged hair cells and directly stimulates the auditory nerve with electrical signals

Answer

Amplifies sound mechanically

Answer

Is worn externally only

Answer

Treats only conductive hearing loss

Question 2

The external components of a cochlear implant system typically include:

Accepted Answer

A microphone, sound processor, and transmitter coil

Answer

The electrode array and receiver-stimulator only

Answer

The cochlea and auditory nerve

Answer

A battery implanted behind the ear

Question 3

Which audiometric criterion is a key candidacy requirement for cochlear implantation in adults in the US?

Accepted Answer

Bilateral severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss with limited benefit from hearing aids

Answer

Mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss

Answer

Any degree of conductive hearing loss

Answer

Single-sided deafness only

Question 4

After cochlear implant surgery, the device is typically activated (first turned on) after:

Accepted Answer

2–4 weeks post-surgery to allow healing

Answer

Immediately in the operating room

Answer

6 months post-surgery

Answer

1 year post-surgery

Question 5

A cochlear implant is contraindicated in patients who have which condition?

Accepted Answer

Absence of cochlear nerve (cochlear nerve aplasia)

Answer

Sensorineural hearing loss

Answer

Tinnitus

Answer

Age over 65

Question 6

The 'mapping' or 'programming' sessions after cochlear implant activation are used to:

Accepted Answer

Set the threshold and comfort levels for each electrode to optimize hearing performance

Answer

Physically adjust the electrode array position

Answer

Decide if additional surgery is needed

Answer

Teach sign language