Ophthalmology NP

Published

Hello all,

I am graduating this May with an FNP and have been offered a position working in a ophthalmology clinic. It seems completely outside of my scope of practice. I haven't had any clinical hours or much didactic time learning about eye disorders other than the general conditions. The ophthalmologist is willing to train me for at least 6 months and whatever training is needed to be a skilled ophthalmology NP. I have heard though that on the job training doesn't count.

I would love to take the position but how can I make sure I am covered from a legal aspect? What does an NP have to do if they want to specialize in something and they have no educational experience? CME's? Certifications? I am not sure where to start! If anyone has experience with going into a specialty please give me some advice.

Thank you in advance,

Jelena

Specializes in ER, HH, CTICU, corrections, cardiology, hospice.

I asked an ophthalmologist what role an NP would fill. He said that optometrists fill that roll.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Ophthalmology NP.

Yeah but Optometrists cannot perform H&P and they can’t get DEA. They prescribe limited eye meds.

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Vascular Neurology and Neurocritical Care.

So the OP was concerned that ophthalmology would be out of the scope of practice for an FNP - a non-surgical opportunity - but then took a surgical position with a spine surgeon...... There's a disconnect here.

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Ophthalmology NP.

That’s comparing apples to oranges. Optometrists have their own clinics, see eye patients . NPs can be valuable for ophthalmologists, to do eye screen tests, H&P, prescribe meds, assist in minor and major surgeries, etc. Yes, NPs can never replace optometrists, but NPs can do a lot.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Ophthamology.

I have been a nurse practitioner and a retina practice for the past 10 years

I certainly love my job. Ophthalmology is a field of advanced practice that I encourage anyone interested to explore. American Society of ophthalmic registered nurses ASORN Is a good place to get some information. They can put you in touch with nurse practitioners doing the job currently they can help guide you as you explore this growing opportunity

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hello there,

I wanted to know if Adult Gerontology NP can work as Ophthalmology NP or not? and what is the best route to look for Ophthalmology NP job? I would be so grateful if anybody can reply to my questions. Thank you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, HH, CTICU, corrections, cardiology, hospice.

I asked an Ophthalmologist this once. He said optometrists were the PAs for ophthalmologists for the most part.

Im a polio victim when it comes to eyes. We didn’t get any training in that I recall.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
On 7/7/2021 at 11:52 PM, Norma Rai said:

Hello there,

I wanted to know if Adult Gerontology NP can work as Ophthalmology NP or not? and what is the best route to look for Ophthalmology NP job? I would be so grateful if anybody can reply to my questions. Thank you.

 

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion