Ophthalmic nurse

An ophthalmic nurse cares for patients with eye injuries or diseases, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts.

Required education

ADN or BSN

Patient-facing

Work hands-on, directly with patients.

Structured

Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.

What is the role of an ophthalmic nurse?

You’ll work directly with an ophthalmologist, treating patients of all ages who are affected by eye issues.

What you’ll do as an ophthalmic nurse

Assistance

You’ll assist the surgical team during eye surgery.

Documentation

You’ll collect medical histories, record visual activity and ocular functions, and other information related to patient visits.

Education

You’ll show patients how to care for their eye injuries or diseases at home.

Examinations

You’ll show patients how to care for their eye injuries or diseases at home.

Female nurse smiling at elderly female patient in nursing home setting

Where you’ll work as an ophthalmic nurse

Ophthalmic nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

Clinics
Doctors’ office
Eye care centers
Hospitals
Ophthalmologist offices
Outpatient care centers

How to become an ophthalmic nurse

Get an Associate’s Degrees in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Take elective courses in anatomy, physiology, and diseases of the eye.

Pass the NCLEX-RN.

The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.

Work as a Registered Nurse, gaining 4,000 hours’ or two years’ experience in ophthalmology.

Get your Certification for Registered Nurses of Ophthalmology through the National Certification Board for Ophthalmic Registered Nurses.

You’re ready to work as a ophthalmic nurse!