Courses

Ophthalmology for HCAs

OVERVIEW

The course explores the eye from basic anatomy & physiology to an overview of common conditions - chronic and acute and addresses some of the technical diagnostic aspects which are becoming more prevalent in modern ophthalmology.

Delegates will also have the chance to take part in interactive simulation to gain an understanding of the psychology of how it feels to be visually challenged.

For HCA’s/HCW’s, junior technicians who are new to ophthalmology who have no formal training as well as junior staff who have some experience but who are “learning on the job”.

The course gives a good basic understanding of ophthalmology and will inspire delegates to pursue further courses to build on their learning.

"A good insight into the basics of eye care!"

"The tutor explained it so well even I, who knew nothing about eyes, came out understanding a lot and feeling confident!"

"Very advanced course, strongly recommend!"

Past course delegates

CONTENT

Interactive Quiz - Assessment of the groups current knowledge

Anatomy & Physiology of the Eye and its surrounding orbit & muscles

Assessing visual acuity – taking a Snellens vision with an over view of Logmar and other test types.

Understanding myopia/hypermetropia/presbyopia

Common ophthalmic conditions –

• Cataract
• Glaucoma
• Acute Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Diabetic Eye Disease – overview of diabetic retinopathy and the value of diabetic eye screening

Understanding what it’s like to be visually challenged –

• Looking at enhanced smell and sound.
• Walking a visually challenged patient and other simulation tests

Presenting conditions in Urgent Care -

• Minor - Conjuntivitis, abrasions, foreign bodies, sub conjuctival haemorrhages, dy eyes, ulcers
• Major - Retinal detachment, iritis, acute glaucoma, penetrating injuries

Overview of technical considerations –

• Theory behind taking visual fields and interpreting them.
• Basic imaging for diagnosis
• The value of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), Flourescein Angiography and Anterior Segment imaging

Workshops in -

• Instilling drops/ointment – correct technique and legalities.
• Applying pads and pad & bandage
• Eyelid eversion
• Irrigation

The psychology of visual loss – benefits available, full and part registration.

What’s available for visually challenged people

Pub quiz. Consolidation of the day

AIMS AND OUTCOMES

• Develop essential knowledge and appropriate skills in the quality treatment and management of the patient with an eye problem

ATTENDED BY

• Healthcare Assistants