OPT043: Ophthalmic Therapeutic Laser Procedures - Foundation

This module will provide theoretical and introductory practical simulation training in ophthalmic therapeutic laser procedures for eye care practitioners.

Course participants may include optometrists, ophthalmologists, and other non-medical ophthalmic practitioners such as ophthalmic nurses or orthoptists.

The module covers YAG laser capsulotomy, selective laser trabeculoplasty and YAG laser peripheral iridotomy. Teaching is via blended learning. Theoretical elements are delivered online including formative and summative assessments. Practical training will take place during one contact day in the simulation suite at Cardiff University in which you will develop therapeutic laser skills in a training lab using model eyes under close supervision.

This module provides an introduction to laser procedures, and successful completion does not provide accreditation for independently delivering therapeutic ophthalmic laser procedures to patients.

It is recommended that participants are already competent in the assessment of the anterior chamber angle using gonioscopy prior to attending the practical training day.

Learning objectives

On completion of the module, you should be able to:

• critically apply advanced knowledge of ophthalmic conditions which may require therapeutic laser treatments to online case scenarios based on real and simulated patients
• demonstrate professional judgement when reviewing and analysing real and simulated patient clinical data for cataract, OHT and the glaucomas, to risk assess and confirm appropriate treatment options including indications and contraindications of therapeutic laser procedures
• communicate effectively and empathetically with simulated patients, engendering a positive culture of shared decision making when discussing risks and benefits of, and obtaining informed consent for, ophthalmic therapeutic laser procedures
• critically apply specialist knowledge when performing ophthalmic therapeutic laser procedures in a practical simulation setting on model eyes
• demonstrate critical decision making in managing minor and major complications of ophthalmic therapeutic laser procedures in online case scenarios based on real and simulated patients
• critically evaluate the key evidence base and national clinical guidelines for therapeutic laser interventions in cataract, OHT and the glaucomas, and apply to online case scenarios based on real and simulated patients

How the module will be delivered

This module is taught via pre-recorded online lectures, a webinar, an online teaching day, supporting resources delivered on Learning Central and a practical training day at Cardiff University.

During the term facilitated discussion boards accessed via Learning Central will also provide a platform for students to discuss any questions or share knowledge with course tutors and peers.

The practical training day will be hosted at the Cardiff University School of Optometry and Vision Sciences. At the contact day you will learn practical ophthalmic therapeutic laser procedures using the laser simulation training suite, as well as have opportunities to refine gonioscopy skills and the process for obtaining informed patient consent.

Attendance at the contact practical training day is mandatory so please contact PGOptom@cardiff.ac.uk for more information about course dates if you will need advanced notice to schedule your attendance.

How the module will be assessed

Formative assessment

Formative assignments and case discussions will be presented online throughout the semester and you will receive formative feedback during webinars. You will receive formative feedback on your practical skills from course tutors at the contact training day.

Summative assessment

Occurs at the end of the semester and comprises an online written test (100%). This is an electronic online test that will assess knowledge and application across the entire syllabus.

Post-module supervised training

If you wish to continue developing your ophthalmic laser skills, you will be responsible for organising post-module supervised training and experience in delivering therapeutic ophthalmic laser procedures.  This module does not provide accreditation for independent practice.

Skills that will be practised and developed

In addition to subject specific skills associated with ophthalmic therapeutic laser procedures you will also develop the following skillset:

Academic skills 

• Advance own knowledge and understanding
• Collate and synthesise information from several resources to improve learning
• Interpret data

Generic skills

• Manage projects and time
• Work independently
• Use a range of IT software packages and online resources
• Problem solving