Ophthalmic Technician

Under general supervision from the ophthalmic manager, perform both basic and intermediate ophthalmic 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. bPreferred Education, Skills andor Experiences:b Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) certification preferred. bKey Functions and Expected Performances:b Patient Evaluation: To perform intermediate patient evaluation for ophthalmic patients o Document the patient history, including chief complaint, pain assessment, ocular history, medical history, family ocular and medical history o 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 o Assess visual acuity at distance and also at near, when required o Neutralize spectacles using the manual lensometer. Be able to recognize and quantify prism component o Determine the dioptric power of the cornea with the manual keratometer o Perform retinoscopy. Demonstrate basic mastery of the following concepts: with motion, against motion, scissoring, neutrality, and working distance o Perform intermediate refractometry at distance and near. Utilize retinoscope when necessary o 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. Quantify phorias and tropias using loose prisms andor prism bars. Demonstrate intermediate mastery of the following concepts: phoria, tropia, binocular diplopia, monocular diplopia o 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 o Measure tonometry by applanation o 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 physicians in the diagnosis of ophthalmic patients o Assess visual potential using both Lotmar and PAM o Measure corneal surface using Orbscan o Perform basic soft contact lens fitting. Refract, measure Ks, estimate correct lens (both power and base curve), then test and over-refract as needed to determine suitability of lens o Perform basic slit lamp exam. Examine lids, lashes, conjunctiva, and corneal surface. Assess angle depth prior to dilation o Perform axial length measurements using both IOL Master and I-Cubed AB-scan machine. Be able to troubleshoot results and identify readings that require physician approval. Show good clinical judgment, knowing when to proceed independently and when to involve a supervisor. Document all findings according to clinic guidelines o Perform Humphrey Visual Field test. Program HVF analyzer, properly set up trial lens, instruct patient, monitor patient cooperation and progress, and print out report Minor Surgical Procedures: Assists faculty with surgical procedures in minor surgery room as required o Set up area according to procedure and physician instructions o Assist the physician(s) as directed o Complete all required documentation according to clinic guidelines o Clean the instrument(s) and area Exam room maintenance: to provide a clean and a well-stocked room with supplies and working equipment o Stock supplies and forms according to department guidelines o Inform supervisor of any mechanical difficulties or equipment failure o Clean and wipe down the examinati