Education requirements
ADN or BSN
Attributes
Patient-facing
Work hands-on, directly with patients.
Structured
Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.
You’ll work directly with an Ophthalmologist, treating patients of all ages who are affected by eye issues.
What you’ll do
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 assess patients before and after eye surgery.
Where you'll work
- Clinics
- Doctors' office
- Eye care centers
- Hospitals
- Ophthalmologist offices
- Outpatient care centers
How to become an Ophthalmic Nurse
01
Get an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Take elective courses in anatomy, physiology, and diseases of the eye.
02
Pass the NCLEX-RN.
03
Work as a Registered Nurse
Gain 4,000 hours’ or two years’ experience in Ophthalmology.
04
Get your Certification for Registered Nurses of Ophthalmology through the National Certification Board for Ophthalmic Registered Nurses.
05
You’re ready to work as an Ophthalmic Nurse.
Join an Organization
Become a member of an Ophthalmic Nurse organization to find career opportunities, learn from your colleagues, and support the profession.
Related Organizations
An Otorhinolaryngology Nurse’s role is also patient-facing.
An Obstetrics Nurse is another type of family nurse.
