Ophthalmic Nurse

Overview

Job Summary The Ophthalmic Nurse is responsible for delivering comprehensive eye care services, including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative nursing support, as well as outpatient and emergency eye care. The role requires strong clinical competence, precision in ophthalmic procedures, and effective patient education to promote optimal eye health outcomes. Key Duties and Responsibilities Clinical Care Conduct visual acuity tests, tonometry, and other preliminary ophthalmic assessments Administer prescribed ophthalmic medications, including eye drops, ointments, and injections Prepare patients for ophthalmic procedures and surgeries such as cataract extraction, glaucoma surgery, and retinal procedures Assist ophthalmologists during minor procedures and in theatre settings Monitor post-operative patients for complications including infection, bleeding, or raised intraocular pressure Provide wound care and perform suture removal when required Patient Management and Education Triage and assess patients in outpatient clinics and emergency eye care cases Educate patients and caregivers on medication adherence, post-operative care, hygiene, and preventive eye health Provide counselling for chronic eye conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye syndrome Administration and Quality Maintain accurate and timely patient records, treatment documentation, and monitoring & evaluation data Ensure strict adherence to infection prevention and control protocols, particularly in theatre and procedure rooms Manage ophthalmic equipment, including cleaning, sterilization, calibration, and reporting faults or malfunctions Participate in outreach programs, eye camps, and school screening activities as required Adhere to hospital policies, Ministry of Health guidelines, and Nursing Council of Kenya regulations Requirements Qualifications and Experience Diploma or Degree in Nursing from a recognized institution Registered with the Nursing Council of Kenya with a valid practicing license Higher Diploma in Ophthalmic Nursing is a strong added advantage (preferred) Minimum of 2 years’ clinical nursing experience; experience in ophthalmology, theatre, or outpatient care is preferred Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required; Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is an added advantage