Rattanasirivilai P, Shirodkar AL. A study of the role and educational needs of ophthalmic specialist nurses.
ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021;
30:858-864. [PMID:
34288742 DOI:
10.12968/bjon.2021.30.14.858]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
AIMS
To explore the current roles, responsibilities and educational needs of ophthalmic specialist nurses (OSNs) in the UK.
METHOD
A survey of 73 OSNs ranging from band 4 to band 8 was undertaken in May 2018.
FINDINGS
73% of OSNs undertake more than one active role, with 59% involved in nurse-led clinics; 63% felt formal learning resources were limited, with 63% reporting training opportunities and 21% reporting time as major barriers to further training. More than 38% emphasised hands-on clinic-based teaching had a greater impact on their educational needs. Some 64% were assessed on their skills annually and 59% felt confident with their skill set.
CONCLUSION
The Ophthalmic Common Clinical Competency Framework provides a curriculum and assessment tools for OSNs to use as a structure to maintain clinical skills and knowledge. Eye departments should use this as guidance to target learning needs and improve standards of care to meet the changing needs of society.
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