Ophthalmic Technician-Fayetteville

Position Overview: Under general supervision from the optometric manager, perform both basic and intermediate optometric exam techniques. This includes specialized testing. Responsible for teaching and instruction to other technical staff in the basic examination techniques. Provides general clinical support functions.

Responsibilities:

Patient Evaluation: To perform intermediate patient evaluation for ophthalmic patients.

• Document the patient history, including chief complaint, pain assessment, and ocular history, and medical history, family ocular and medical history.
• Document all medications taken, both ophthalmic and systemic. Record and update allergies and adverse reactions on every visit. Accurately document patient use of ophthalmic medications and note compliance.
• Assess visual acuity at distance and also at near, when required.
• Neutralize spectacles using the manual lensometer. Be able to recognize and quantify prism component.
• Determine the dioptric power of the cornea with the manual keratometer.
• Assess motility at the intermediate level. Check ductions and versions; note under- and over-actions when present. Use cover-uncover and alternate-cover tests to check for phorias and tropias.
• Perform intermediate pupil examination: assess direct response to light; measure pupil size in dark and bright conditions; recognize an afferent pupillary defect. Practice good judgment in knowing when to request assistance from another clinician.
• Answer triage phone and work closely with triage resident to assist patients. Function independently, answering questions and obtaining prescription refill authorizations. Accurately document patient complaints, relay messages between physician and patient, and deliver a high level of customer service

Ophthalmic Diagnostic Testing: To perform special testing, to aid the optometrist in the diagnosis of patients.

• Measure corneal surface using topography.
• Perform basic soft contact lens fitting. Measure Ks, estimate correct lens(both power and base
  • Perform Humphrey Visual Field test. Program HVF analyzer, properly set up triallens, instruct patient, monitor patient cooperation and progress, and print out report.

Exam room maintenance: to provide a clean and a well-stocked room with supplies and working equipment.

• Stock supplies and forms according to department guidelines.
• Inform supervisor of any mechanical difficulties or equipment failure.
• Clean and wipe down the examination rooms according to department guidelines.

Patient Courtesy: To greet the patient in a professional manner.

• Confirm full name and date of birth.
• Communicate effectively with the patients. Inform them of delays, offer to help them reschedule when necessary, and endeavor to make them more comfortable when possible.

Mentor to Assistants: The technicians will assist the assistants in applying new skills, techniques and knowledge of optometry and the clinic.

• Teach the basic optometric skills through discussion and example.
• Teach the use of optometric equipment (Humphrey visual field, Tonopen, Projector, Topography, etc.)

Faculty and Staff assistance: Perform functions that assist faculty and technical staff with daily clinical needs as directed.

• Perform any request to the best of your ability. When necessary, find a senior staff member to fulfill requests that are beyond your current skill set.
• Support the entire technical team and assist any patient who requests your help, to the best of your ability.

Qualifications:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Problem-solver with analytical skills.
• Personable; empathetic with patient's needs and concerns.
• Well-organized with attention to detail.
• Ability to work as a team member.
• Demonstrated ability to perform comprehensive work ups on 3.5 patients per hour.
• Demonstrated computer literacy.