Continues structured clinical experiences with emphasis on gaining autonomy in performing basic procedures, while adding new experiences in digital imaging and surgical assisting. Students must document 168 clinical hours.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
- Ophthalmic Microbiology and Pharmacology
- Ocular Motility
- Contact Lenses
- Optics / Opticianry
- Tonometry
- Visual Fields
- Specialized Ophthalmic Testing
- Ophthalmic Photography
- Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting
At the completion of this course, the student will demonstrate achievement of core competencies of an ophthalmic technician as outlined by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) and the Commission on Accreditation of Ophthalmic Medical Programs (CoA-OMP) as follows:
- Skillfully and accurately perform clinical and diagnostic tests and patient services in conformation with the didactic curriculum.
- Identify cause and effect of the most common systemic conditions with ocular manifestations.
- Select imaging technique appropriate for various ocular conditions.
- Obtain clear fundus photographs.
- Recognize common artifacts in digital images.
- Perform tests of tear function.
- Demonstrate proper gowning and gloving technique.
- Perform preoperative hand scrub.
- Identify sterile field and instruments for common ocular procedures.
- Assist in minor ophthalmic surgery.
- Clean and sterilize ophthalmic microsurgical instruments.
- Apply and remove eye dressings.
- Assess post-operative patient acuity.
- Relate tactfully and sympathetically to patients.
- Consistently demonstrate reliability, self-discipline, cooperativeness, and professional deportment and demeanor in clinical activities.
Demonstrate proficiency in both written and spoken communication
Assessment and Requirements
Assessment of academic achievement will include performance during formative and summative practical examinations, and clinic logs.
Students will build competency and confidence in performing routine clinical tasks as part of the eye care team.
Instructors (or their designees) reserve the right to require students to provide proper picture identification for test taking, graded papers or projects or other appropriate purposes.
Textbooks to be determined by program faculty.