As a WRHA audiologist with 14 years of clinical experience, Wafaa Rhoualem provides comprehensive patient and family-centered audiological care for preschoolers and beyond, up to the age of 21.
Photo: Audiologist Wafaa Rhoualem stands in front of testing equipment
“Many people think audiology is just about ‘testing hearing,’ but it is much more than that,” says Wafaa. “Audiology’s impact goes beyond diagnosing hearing loss. Hearing is central to how we learn, bond, express ourselves, and experience the world. I am passionate about ensuring children receive timely intervention, appropriate hearing aid technology, and coordinated care.”
A large part of her role involves counseling, education, and emotional support.
“When a parent learns their child has hearing loss, it can be overwhelming. Helping families process that information, guiding them through technology options, and empowering them to support their child’s development is incredibly important. Hearing loss affects communication, education, and quality of life. When we diagnose early, fit appropriate technology, and support families properly, we can significantly change a child’s developmental trajectory.”
Although Wafaa says that no two days as an audiologist are ever the same–which keeps the work engaging and meaningful–a typical day for her at Access Fort Garry includes a mix of diagnostic testing, hearing aid fittings and programming, follow-up appointments, and collaborating with other healthcare specialists and educators.
“Throughout the day, we document assessments, communicate results to families, and ensure collaborative care plans are in place, including referrals to Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) specialists, speech-language pathologists, and pediatricians for further medical evaluation and management. I’m also constantly cleaning and preparing materials to maintain infection control standards.”
Audiology – A Day in the Life
- Conducting pure-tone audiometry to identify hearing thresholds, enabling determination of the degree, type, and configuration of a hearing loss and providing a basis for diagnosis and management.
- Conducting speech testing (also called speech audiometry) to evaluate an individual’s ability to detect, recognize, and comprehend speech under different conditions.
- Performing tympanometry, a non-invasive procedure to assess the health and functionality of the middle ear. It measures the response of the eardrum to different air pressures, helping to identify abnormalities such as fluid buildup or perforated eardrums.
- Conducting Otoacoustic Emissions tests (OAEs), a non-invasive method that evaluates the function of the inner ear, specifically the cochlea. This test measures sound waves produced by the outer hair cells in response to an auditory stimulation.
- Performing Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA) for pediatric patients, a test which conditions children to respond to sounds in a sound booth while keeping them engaged and comfortable.
- Programming and adjusting hearing aids, analyzing test data, matching prescriptions, verifying fittings, and monitoring outcomes to ensure children/young adults are truly benefiting.
- Spending time keeping up with rapidly evolving technology such as Bluetooth-enabled and rechargeable devices.
“Many people think audiology is just about ‘testing hearing,’ but it is much more than that. Audiology’s impact goes beyond diagnosing hearing loss. Hearing is central to how we learn, bond, express ourselves, and experience the world.” – Audiologist Wafaa Rhoualem
Photo: Wafaa performing one of the many tests an audiologist may conduct with patients.
Listening to what speaks to you
Outside of work, Wafaa loves swimming as a way of relaxing and resetting after a busy clinical week.
“I am a proud mother of three children. Family is very important to me, and much of my time outside of work revolves around supporting my children’s activities and spending quality time together. I also enjoy baking, especially for my family, as it allows me to be creative and unwind.”
Wafaa says that balancing a busy clinical career with family life has strengthened her time management skills, resilience, and empathy; qualities which have positively influenced her professional practice.
“From a young age, I knew I wanted to work in health care because I love caring for people and making a meaningful difference in their lives. I’m passionate about creating positive patient experiences, especially during vulnerable moments. For me, health care is about compassion, connection, and helping people feel supported and empowered.”
Wafaa discovered audiology at University of Montreal and was immediately drawn to its unique combination of science, technology, and compassionate patient care. She was inspired by the opportunity to work closely with patients over time, build meaningful relationships with families, and see the long-term impact of intervention.
“The most powerful moments in my career are seeing children respond to sound for the first time after being fitted with hearing aids. Watching their reaction and their parents’ emotional response reminds me why I chose this profession. Helping patients reconnect with sound and communication is incredibly rewarding and reaffirms that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”