Ophthalmic Technician (Full Time & Part Time)

Job description

Job responsibilities

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES

1. To provide technical support to the Ophthalmology service.
2. To independently assess and interpret visual acuity measurements.
3. To independently perform accurate imaging of the eye using OCT scanning and Optos photography on a range of patients referred from the ophthalmology service.
4. To independently perform accurate visual field assessment using the Humphrey Visual Field Analyser on a range of patients referred from the ophthalmology service.
5. To select appropriate visual field tests taking into account patient ability i.e. age, visual acuity, mobility and diagnosis.
6. To undertake intraocular pressure measurement using Reichert ORA.
7. To undertake corneal mapping using Pentacam.
8. To adjust variables to ensure optimum performance for each patient.
9. To be able to measure patients glasses accurately on a lens meter (focimeter).
10. To use knowledge and experience to identify when a patient is not complying with an assessment, and inform medical staff of the appropriateness of the test for these patients.
11. To use knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the eye and visual pathway to help identify pathology and adjust testing programmes as appropriate.
12. Use knowledge of ophthalmic conditions to prioritise follow up appointments.
13. To ensure that results are fed back to the appropriate clinician.
14. To perform and demonstrate tests to other members of staff and aid with teaching them when necessary.
15. To work independently within departmental guidelines and identify when input from other medical staff is required.
16. To communicate well with all members of the team and demonstrate a courteous and helpful approach to patients and visitors.
17. To be adaptable and manage the workload which may be unpredictable and require changes and prioritisation at short notice to meet demand.
18. To ensure equipment is used safely and is correctly calibrated.
19. To keep line manager informed of any equipment faults.

COMMUNICATION

1. To be able to exchange information with patients using persuasion and reassurance to ensure best test results while making sure the patient is comfortable many patients will be elderly and require moderate physical help. Empathy is needed when dealing with patients with sight threatening and life changing sight problems.
2. To liaise with other staff within the service to ensure a good patient experience, keep visits to a minimum and maximise resources.
3. Utilise and demonstrate sensitive communication styles, to ensure patients are fully informed and consent to treatment.
4. Communicate effectively with patients and carers, recognising the need for alternative methods of communication to overcome different levels of understanding, cultural background and preferred ways of communicating.
5. Anticipate barriers to communication and take action to improve communication.
6. Adapt the information given to the level of understanding of patients of all ages and abilities. This may be of a sensitive nature and will need to be phrased so there is full understanding of the condition.
7. Ensure respect and dignity for patients at all times.
8. Ensure awareness of sources of support and guidance (e.g. PALS) and provide information in an acceptable format to all patients, recognising any difficulties and referring where appropriate.

This job description is not exhaustive and will be subject to periodic review with the post holder.

Person Specification

Education

Essential

• GCSE English and Maths - Grade C
• Knowledge and training to work at foundation degree/BTEC higher

Desirable

• Moorfields Ophthalmic Technician Course

Experience

Essential

• Healthcare Experience - patient facing

Desirable

• Ophthalmic Experience
• Technician Experience

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details

Employer name

Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Royal Berkshire Hospital

London Road

Reading

RG1 5AN

Employer's website

https://www.royalberkshire.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)