Which item is NOT typically addressed by Speech-Language Pathologists?

• A. Hearing
• B. Speech
• C. Swallowing
• D. Language

Answer: (A)

The item tests the scope of practice for Speech-Language Pathologists. SLPs focus on diagnosing and treating communication disorders and swallowing difficulties, which includes speech production (articulation and phonology), language skills (receptive and expressive language, pragmatics), and swallowing safety and efficiency (dysphagia). Hearing, on the other hand, falls under audiology—specialists who evaluate hearing thresholds, diagnose hearing loss, and manage amplification devices. An SLP may collaborate with an audiologist when a client has hearing loss to support communication outcomes, but hearing itself is not typically addressed by SLPs. The other options—speech, swallowing, and language—are central to the SLP role, making hearing the item that is not typically addressed.