Ophthalmic HCA Technician

Main purpose of job

To provide ophthalmic scans and investigations for patients prior to their appointments and to assist the consultants in clinic by performing visual acuity and administering eye drops as prescribed. To provide HCA support to the retinal clinics and to provide a visual field service within the Princess Elizabeth Hospital. To maintain confidential, accurate patient records which comply with local protocols and professional legislation. To maintain positive communication links between the Medical Specialist Group (MSG), primary and secondary care and other agencies.

Main duties

Clinical

• To routinely perform ophthalmic tests using specialised equipment including OCT scans, biometry, auto refraction and corneal topography.
• Assist the Ophthalmology Consultants and Extended Scope Practitioners by performing visual acuity tests, administering eye drops and assisting with retinal clinics.
• Undertake visual fields assessments on both adults and children.
• Assist in the provision of high-quality scans, tests and visual field for all patients referred to the MSG.
• Prepare clinical equipment and machines for clinics and ensure the correct equipment is always available.
• Clean and maintain equipment, aids and clinic rooms whilst also reporting any faults, hazards to the Lead Nurse.
• Undertake clerical and administrative duties where required and record outcomes in the electronic patient record Medisight.
• Adhere to all relevant policies and procedures.
• Monitor and report changes in patient/service users presentation to the staff member in charge and take appropriate action.

Communication

• Communicate effectively with patients/service users and their support networks compassionately, confidentially, in a sensitive and professional manner that respects their views and cognitive functioning.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills with all members of the multi-disciplinary team. 
• Use a wide range of communication skills that can be adapted to meet the needs of complex and challenging situations.
• Provide clear, concise and accurate electronic records in accordance with agreed policy and standards.

Leadership

• Promote high quality care through the role modelling of professional behaviours.
• Advocate on behalf of patients and service users.
• Take accountability for own decisions and actions.

Professional Development

• Undertake the Health & Social Care, Care Certificate and Band 3 Competency Pathway within a specified time scale.
• Complete the Ophthalmology module as part of the Competency Pathway.
• Complete training in accordance with MSG mandatory requirements.
• Participate in supervisory one to one meetings and the MSG performance management process developing plans to meet personal and organisational objectives.
• Participate in the induction, orientation and development of new staff.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Health & Social Care or HSC Care Certificate and Band 3 Competency Pathway or willingness to complete.
• Willingness to complete the Band 3 Ophthalmic Competency Module.
• Experience in a caring role. Health & Social Care Experience.
• Experience in dealing with patients or clients.
• Clean enhanced DBS check.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong organisation skills.
• Experience of working well within a team.
• Punctual and reliable.
• Self-motivated and able to use initiative.
• Enthusiastic approach to work.
• Flexible and adaptable.
• Empathy with patient needs.
• Ability to deal with sensitive situations.
• Awareness of the requirement to maintain confidentiality.
• Knowledge of GDPR legislation.
• Ability to follow instructions.

Desirable

• Experience working with children.
• Keyboard skills.
• Evidence of CPD.