“I left the appointment with a real sense of accomplishment”

My biggest learning from my final year at university was the importance of understanding why each test is performed, so that informed and well-reasoned decisions can be made about a patient’s care.

Every test has its own indications, and doing them all would be impractical, so applying guidelines and exercising sound clinical judgement is essential.

I have taken a few important lessons from university into my early days of pre-reg.

These include the importance of clear and effective patient communication, using refraction tools such as the +1.00 blur test and duo chrome, applying local and pharmacology guidelines, and managing my time efficiently to keep clinics running smoothly.

“There will always be a placement that is the right fit, but finding it often means weighing up the pros and cons and doing plenty of research”

My reflections on the journey of finding a pre-reg placement include the importance of carefully considering the location and the mode of practice, and ensuring applications are made in good time.

There will always be a placement that is the right fit, but finding it often means weighing up the pros and cons and doing plenty of research.

My most enjoyable moment of my pre-reg so far has been completing my first full eye test.

The patient was aware it might take a little longer than usual, and I felt confident using the skills I had learned, my preparation, and the support of my supervisor when needed. I left the appointment with a real sense of accomplishment.

My most nervous moment so far has been my first day.

As my interview was completed online, I hadn’t met the team in person, and the thought of starting in a new area with a new patient cohort felt overwhelming at first. However, I was quickly put at ease by how welcoming and supportive everyone has been.

On maintaining a work–life balance, I plan to make sure I schedule time to relax and arrange plans on my days off, rather than spending all my free time studying.

I’ll also set aside dedicated study time so that both work and rest have their place in my routine.

The most important thing I have learnt in the past 60 days is to not to be afraid to ask questions.

There are no silly questions – it’s much better to be sure than to potentially reduce the quality of a patient’s care.

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Nora Amoakohene is a pre-reg optometrist at Premier Vision in Bradford. Watch her first video online now.