“Obtaining a second opinion has been invaluable”

I have also learnt to appreciate the extended amount of testing time I’m able to have during this pre-reg year, as opposed that which some qualified optometrists have. This year has shown me the areas I feel most confident in, and the areas I still need to improve on. Obtaining a second opinion has been invaluable: I have used other optometrists for personal growth, clinical opinions and maintaining professional standards. This has enriched my experience and provided a solid foundation of knowledge necessary to become a competent and safe practitioner.

I really do appreciate the patience and courtesy people have offered me

Additionally, during this placement I have worked effectively as a new team member within an established team at my store. I have learnt how to communicate well with work colleagues regarding dispensing queries, seeking advice on how to dispense high prescriptions, sorting out vouchers, and ordering lenses.

When I worked in previous stores, I always acknowledged the need for everyone to play their role in the store – that is required to make the day and the patient experience run smoothly. However, now I’m a pre-reg optometrist I really do appreciate the patience and courtesy people have offered me, and how they have allowed me time to organise my patient records and care.

Patient interactions

My day-to-day experience has varied. There have been many times when I have not known what type of patients will come through the door. Emergency patients, those with acute eye problems, or those who have mixed up their appointment time, can walk in on the same day, and all have to be seen. These unplanned patients episodes can be fascinating and engaging. I love any patient-clinician interaction where I can make people feel comfortable enough to open up regarding their general health, lifestyle, and concerns regarding their current sight.

Working on the shop floor has given me an awareness of the daily struggles patients have with broken or faulty glasses. There are times when being on the floor has given me an opportunity to give great customer service, and to resolve any issues a patient has, whether big or small.

I love any patient-clinician interaction where I can make people can feel comfortable enough to open up regarding their general health, lifestyle, and concerns regarding their current sight

The value of supervisors

My current supervisors are very supportive, especially as they are on hand to double check any abnormalities, queries or concerns I may have with a patient. My supervisors, which include newly-qualified optometrists who work at the practice, have all tried to make me feel comfortable and show me the interesting cases that don’t show up often. I have discussed and had support with different pathology. That has underpinned my approach to management and care, and has helped me to be able to articulate my management to the patient.

My supervisors, including newly-qualified optometrists who work at the practice, have all tried to make me feel comfortable and show me the interesting cases that don’t show up often

I have one supervisor in particular who has been helpful, and she has always encouraged me to ask questions and knock on her door if I am unsure of anything. I believe that this type of support has been invaluable, and should be available in all pre-reg placements.

Standout moments that have really surprised me have included numerous instances of alternating exotropia that I have seen within the past two months. Plus, the number of appreciative patients who have offered me chocolates and kind words within the consultation room. I also enjoy receiving positive patient feedback at the end of an examination. It makes me feel valued and appreciated, and confirms that I am giving good care.