On the front line

What’s your role?

I’m a staff nurse based in paediatric ophthalmology at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Trust in Liverpool. I test visions, carry out visual field testing, OCT imaging and run a nurse-led watery eye clinic. But my favourite part is teaching children and parents how to apply and remove contact lenses.

How long have you been involved in contact lens work?

I have worked in the department for 11 years and have been involved in contact lens teaching for at least nine of those. I remember our lead
optometrist at the time approaching me and asking if it was something I would like to get involved in. I jumped at the chance. It is something I love doing and it can be so rewarding.

What have you found most challenging about this aspect of your role?

We don’t just see local children; sometimes they come from Wales, the Isle of Man or even further afield. This becomes slightly harder to manage as they aren’t just down the road if they encounter a problem with the lenses.

I try and plan a teaching session to coincide with one of their other appointments, allowing plenty of time for the discussion/questions and if they need a break in between, so that they feel well prepared and confident handling the contact lenses.

About the author

Jodie Pendlebury is a staff nurse at Alder Hey Children's NHS Trust, Liverpool