Opthalmic Nursing Officer

Role Overview

The Ophthalmology Nurse provides specialised nursing care to patients with eye conditions across clinics, wards, and procedure areas. This role supports ophthalmologists before, during, and after eye examinations and treatments, helping patients move through care safely and with dignity. By combining clinical assessment, patient teaching, and accurate documentation, the nurse helps the eye care team achieve timely diagnoses, successful procedures, and better visual outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct focused ocular assessments, including history taking, visual acuity checks, and documentation of symptoms, medications, and allergies.
• Prepare patients for eye examinations, diagnostic tests, minor procedures, and surgery by confirming consent, verifying identity, and ensuring comfort.
• Assist ophthalmologists during slit-lamp exams, minor surgical interventions, and laser treatments while maintaining a sterile field and anticipating instrument needs.
• Administer prescribed topical and systemic eye medications, monitor for side effects, and reinforce correct instillation techniques with patients and caregivers.
• Deliver postoperative and follow-up care, including dressing checks, pain or pressure assessment, eye drop schedules, and coordination of return appointments.
• Teach patients and families about eye conditions, infection prevention, activity restrictions, and warning signs that require immediate medical attention.
• Clean, disinfect, and maintain ophthalmic instruments and equipment, and monitor stock levels of eye drops, dressings, and consumables.
• Document nursing care accurately, communicate changes to the multidisciplinary team, and take part in quality improvement and continuing education activities.

Requirements & Qualifications

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or a Diploma in Kenya Registered Community Health Nursing.
• A Higher National Diploma in Ophthalmology.
• Active registration and a valid practising licence from the Nursing Council of Kenya.
• At least three (3) years of nursing experience, preferably in a hospital environment.
• Demonstrated ability to perform ophthalmic assessments, administer eye medications, and assist with eye procedures.
• Strong patient education, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to reassure anxious or visually impaired patients.
• Sound clinical judgement, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Commitment to patient safety, confidentiality, and ongoing professional development.