The Institute of Eye Surgery is Ireland's only fully comprehensive sub-speciality eye-care network of private clinics offering a full range of eye services including cataract surgery, ocular surface, vitreoretinal surgery, laser eye correction and glaucoma treatment. We also provide an urgent access eye care service nationwide.
Due to continued growth the Institute of Eye Surgery is seeking an Ophthalmic Nurse to provide high-quality, patient-centred nursing care to individuals presenting with eye disorders, injuries and diseases. The successful candidate will work closely with Consultant Ophthalmologists, Optometrists and Ophthalmic Technicians to deliver safe, effective and efficient ophthalmic services within a busy clinical setting.
Full structured training will be provided, offering an excellent opportunity for professional development within a leading private ophthalmic service.
Location:
Candidates can be primarily based at IOES Clane, Co. Kildare and will travel to cover the other locations below:
Training & Development
Comprehensive training will be provided, including:
- The recognised JACPHO Ophthalmic Nursing Training Programme
- Surgical scrub training for minor ophthalmic procedures (including lid surgery)
Duties and Responsibilities
Nursing Activities
- Prioritise ophthalmic casualty and urgent-care nursing activity in line with service need.
- Manage ophthalmic emergencies, including chemical injuries and emergency interventions, in accordance with clinical protocols.
- Administer prescribed medications (including intravenous medications) in line with policy, competency and scope of practice.
- Recommend appropriate diagnostic tests under agreed clinical pathways.
- Act as the primary nursing point of contact for ophthalmic casualty patients.
- Monitor patients for adverse reactions to treatments or medications and escalated concerns appropriately.
- Liaise with Consultants regarding blood results and clinical findings.
- Participate as a Surgical Scrub Nurse for IVT clinics following appropriate training.
- Perform ophthalmic assessments in line with training and approved protocols.
- Engage in ongoing professional development to maintain and enhance clinical competence.
Performance
- Participate in internal and external committees or working groups as required.
- Maintain effective working relationships across all departments and locations.
- Collaborate with internal and external colleagues to support the efficient operation of clinical services.
Practice
- Support the introduction of new technologies and services, ensuring alignment with clinic standards.
- Respond to patient queries promptly and professionally in line with agreed protocols.
Compliance
- Complete and follow up on incident forms as required.
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory, accreditation, NMBI and clinical governance standards.
Other Responsibilities
- Work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as rostered and agreed.
- Attend conferences and training events as approved by management.
- Maintain high standards of health, safety and environmental hygiene.
- Proactively communicate risks or service issues to relevant stakeholders.
- Promote a culture of compliance, continuous improvement and innovation.
- Provide nursing support across other clinic locations as required (a full clean driving licence is essential).
- Undertake additional duties commensurate with the role and level of responsibility.
Qualifications & Experience
- Recognised Nursing qualification.
- Registered with the NMBI or eligible for registration.
- Previous experience in a busy clinical or outpatient setting is desirable.
- Experience in IV cannulation and administration of intravenous medications.
- Full clean driving licence.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- High level of professionalism, ethical practice and confidentiality.
- Proficiency in electronic medical records and relevant IT systems.
- Knowledge of ophthalmic medications and clinical procedures appropriate to training.
- Demonstrates flexibility and a proactive, patient-focused approach to care.
- Sound professional judgement in the best interests of patient care and service quality.
This role offers a rewarding opportunity to develop specialist ophthalmic nursing skills within a supportive, high-quality clinical environment.