Typical Tasks
Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.
Consult with and refer patients to ophthalmologist or other health care practitioner if additional medical treatment is determined necessary.
Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements, and safety factors.
Examine eyes, using observation, instruments, and pharmaceutical agents, to determine visual acuity and perception, focus, and coordination and to diagnose diseases and other abnormalities, such as glaucoma or color blindness.
Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.
A day in the life
What kind of work is this?
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Social
Working with people
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
What personality traits do you need to succeed?
Attention to Detail
Concern for Others
Dependability
Integrity
Analytical Thinking
Cooperation
What key skills are needed for this job?
Active Listening
Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Speaking
Writing
Social Perceptiveness
Expected Knowledge
Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Common Activities
Assisting and Caring for Others
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
