Ear-Level Device
Any hearing instrument worn at or on the ear, including behind-the-ear, receiver-in-canal, and in-the-ear styles, as distinguished from body-worn or table-top hearing devices.
Full Definition
The term 'ear-level device' is a style classification used in audiology to group all hearing instruments worn at the ear rather than on the body or in the environment. It encompasses behind-the-ear (BTE) models, receiver-in-canal (RIC) models, in-the-ear (ITE), in-the-canal (ITC), and completely-in-canal (CIC) instruments. The classification is relevant in rehabilitation documentation when describing fitting options, comparing outcomes by device style, or discussing dexterity and cosmetic concerns. Editors should use 'ear-level' as a hyphenated compound modifier (e.g., 'ear-level device') and should not use it interchangeably with 'hearing aid', since not all ear-level devices are hearing aids (some are sound-field receivers or personal sound amplification products).
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate as 'ear-level' when used as a compound modifier before a noun (e.g., 'ear-level device'). Do not use as a synonym for 'hearing aid', as the category includes non-medical amplifiers.
In Context
- "All participants were fitted with ear-level devices; body-worn aids were excluded from the study protocol." — Clinical trial inclusion criteria
- "For patients with limited manual dexterity, the choice of ear-level device style must account for ease of battery replacement and insertion." — Rehabilitation counselling guide