Ophthalmologic LPNs
Career Guide: Salary, Job Duties, and More
This page offers details on the expected salaries, day-to-day job duties, and additional insights for those exploring or considering a career as a ophthalmologic LPN.
What is a Ophthalmologic LPN?
Ophthalmologic licensed practical nurses are valued members of eye care teams. They assist ophthalmologists, nurses, and other providers in the diagnosis and treatment of various eye conditions by confirming patient charts, preparing the exam room, handing tools, tracking vital statistics, performing tests, and educating patients on eye health and safety. Their wide-ranging medical, technical, and clerical duties require training in ophthalmologic care and a dedication to patient well-being and safety protocols.
Though they operate behind the scenes, ophthalmologic LPNs support care providers in caring for patients with complex eye care needs. Their communication skills, flexibility, and ability to remain calm under pressure make them vital to smooth workflows and favorable patient outcomes in the eye clinic.
Read on to learn more about the steps to train for this position, and answers to commonly asked questions.
Key Responsibilities of a Ophthalmologic LPN
The role requires expertise in various eye conditions, familiarity with ophthalmologic equipment, and knowledge of eye health and safety best practices. Ophthalmologic LPNs provide critical assistance so that doctors, nurses, and other staff can effectively concentrate on diagnosing and treating eye disorders.
With strong organizational skills and the ability to work well under pressure, they help ensure smooth patient flow in the eye clinic.
- Preparing exam rooms by sanitizing equipment and stocking necessary supplies
- Coordinating and processing necessary documentation like medical histories
- Facilitating communication between patients and healthcare staff
- Assisting doctors and nurses during exams by handing instruments and adjusting equipment
- Administering eye drops and providing instructional guidance to patients
- Conducting preliminary vision tests and documenting results
- Preparing eye samples and specimens for transport after biopsy or surgical excision
The outlook for careers as ophthalmologic LPNs appears promising over the next decade, with job growth projected to outpace the average rate substantially. Underlying this robust expansion is a confluence of factors fueling greater demand. An aging population vulnerable to vision loss, retinal disease, glaucoma and other ophthalmologic conditions, technological progress in eye care medicine spurring the need for specialized assistants, and the proliferation of eye clinics and surgical centers where many procedures occur, are all converging to heighten demand.
Ophthalmologic LPNs possessing certification and adaptability in performing diverse eye care procedures should encounter expanding job prospects and avenues for career advancement amid these supportive conditions. The combination of rapid growth and the value of specialized skills points toward a favorable environment for those training to enter this vital role within the healthcare workforce supporting ophthalmology teams.
National Average: $59,133.00
| U.S. Regions | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| West | $59,863.00 |
| Midwest | $58,142.00 |
| Northeast | $61,033.00 |
| Southwest | $59,366.00 |
| Southeast | $67,486.00 |
Additional Key Information:
| Salary Range | $45,646.00 entry level to $66,144.00+ |
| Common Benefits | Health insurance, retirement, vacation & bonuses |
How Do I Become a Ophthalmologic LPN?
Pursuing a career as an ophthalmologic LPN to support doctors, nurses, and other staff in diagnosing and treating eye conditions is an incredibly rewarding path for those interested in eye care. Properly preparing for this critical role requires progressing through key education, certification, and practical experience milestones:
Education
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent to establish baseline skills and knowledge for further development
- Enroll in a 1 year LPN diploma program or 2 year associate's degree covering ophthalmology care, eye procedures, pharmacology, anatomy, patient education, and exam assistance.
Certification
- Obtain relevant credentials like COT, COA, or CMA to demonstrate expertise in areas like medical terminology, clinical processes, patient care, and eye care standards.
Practical Experience
- Complete a supervised clinical rotation internship or externship offered through quality programs.
Those aspiring to become ophthalmologic LPNs have a rewarding career ahead helping care teams diagnose and treat eye disorders. The key is laying the proper foundation through education, hands-on training, and credentialing. Enroll in an accredited LPN program specializing in ophthalmology care to establish core knowledge. Reinforce learning via clinical externships offered in quality programs. Consider relevant part-time work for added exposure as well.
Certifications like COT boost qualifications and job prospects. Keeping these pointers in mind will lead to success in launching this fulfilling career supporting critical eye care procedures.
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