BOP8354: Ophthalmic Optics

Module Overview

This module provides students with foundational knowledge and practical skills in the principles of light transmission, its interaction with optical media, and the operation of common ophthalmic equipment. The course is designed to prepare students for clinical practice by integrating theoretical concepts with hands-on application in  ophthalmology.

Learning Outcomes

1. Knowledge and Understanding

• Define intraocular pressure and its clinical significance.
• Explain the purpose and process of refraction examinations.
• Identify and describe the use of common ophthalmic instruments.
• Illustrate both objective and subjective refraction techniques.
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of various refraction methods.

2. Cognitive and Practical Skills

• Clean and disinfect tonometers according to best practices.
• Operate a direct ophthalmoscope, even without full interpretation skills.
• Perform and record confrontation field tests and external eye examinations.
• Conduct Amsler Grid and confrontation field tests.
• Accurately use a lensometer, penlight, and gain introductory experience with a slit lamp.

3. Communication and Analytical Skills

• Take patient histories and accurately record clinical findings.

4. Transferable Skills

• Develop self-critical reflection and professional autonomy.
• Apply ethical standards in clinical practice and patient interaction.
• Construct logical arguments and handle complex information.
• Make critical judgments based on evidence and professional standards.

Indicative Content

Clinical Optics

• Models describing light
• The electromagnetic spectrum
• Optical imaging concepts
• Basic lens terminology
• Principles of reflection and refraction
• Prisms and their optical effects
• The eye as an optical system
• Introduction to refractive errors and their correction

Ophthalmic Instruments and Equipment

• Visual acuity charts
• Tonometers
• Phoropter
• Penlight
• Slit lamp
• Lensometer
• Direct and indirect ophthalmoscopes
• Autorefractometer
• Retinoscope
• Pupillometer
• Exophthalmometer