Developmental Nurse Practitioner in Ophthalmology

This developmental role is designed to support the transition of Band 5 nurses into Band 6 Nurse Practitioners in ophthalmology. It enhances clinical expertise, leadership skills, and specialised knowledge to deliver advanced eye care. The role will involve structured training, mentorship, and independent practice to build the confidence and competence needed for autonomous decision-making in an ophthalmology setting.
As part of the development process, the Band 5 nurse will gain proficiency in advanced clinical assessments, diagnostic techniques, and treatment interventions specific to eye health, including ocular diseases and post-operative care. The role also emphasises developing skills in patient education, clinical governance, and multidisciplinary team collaboration
On completion of the ophthalmology competencies, the post holder will progress from band 5 to band 6, · Develop strong communication skills to explain complex ophthalmic conditions, treatment plans, and surgical procedures to patients and their families in a clear and compassionate manner, ensuring understanding and informed consent.
· Engage with ophthalmologists, optometrists, pharmacists, and allied healthcare professionals to ensure seamless communication across all levels of care, particularly during patient handovers and multidisciplinary meetings.
· Encourage open and transparent communication within the nursing team, supporting colleagues with information, feedback, and guidance. Address any challenges promptly and professionally to maintain a positive working environment.
· Effectively manage difficult conversations, such as delivering challenging news about diagnoses or discussing treatment options with patients who may be anxious or distressed.
· Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, ensuring all clinical decisions, treatments, and care plans are clearly documented and shared appropriately with the broader healthcare team.
· As part of your role development, contribute to identifying areas where the ophthalmology service can be improved, whether through streamlining clinic processes, introducing new technologies, or enhancing patient education materials., · Undertake specialised training in ophthalmic procedures, diagnostics, and treatments.
· Lead and manage patient care autonomously, including performing comprehensive eye assessments.
· Provide advanced clinical support for outpatient clinics, including pre-operative and post-operative care.
· Collaborate with ophthalmologists and the wider multidisciplinary team to ensure high-quality care.
· Participate in clinical decision-making, treatment planning, and the initiation of care pathways for patients with complex eye conditions.
· Mentor and support junior nurses, contributing to their professional development.
· Engage in audit activities, contribute to service improvement initiatives, and ensure adherence to clinical governance standards.
Development Goals:
· Attain clinical competence in advanced ophthalmic nursing practice.
· Demonstrate leadership abilities within the clinical setting.
· Achieve independent decision-making and management of patient caseloads.
· Contribute to clinical innovation and evidence-based practice in eye care.
· Develop skills in teaching, mentoring, and supporting the education of junior staff.
· Take an active role in mentoring Band 5 nurses, student nurses, and healthcare assistants, providing guidance, support, and knowledge- sharing to help them build confidence and skills in ophthalmic nursing.
· Assist in managing day-to-day team operations, such as delegating tasks, coordinating care, and ensuring staff members adhere to clinical protocols and high standards of patient care.
· Encourage continuous professional development among your colleagues, promoting opportunities for further education and training within the ophthalmology team.
· Assist in evaluating the performance of junior staff, providing constructive feedback, and helping them set personal development goals that align with their career aspirations.
· Ensure that a positive, inclusive culture exists within the team, where open communication, mutual respect, and collaboration are norm.
· Take responsibility for providing advanced nursing care, ensuring patients receive individualised treatment plans tailored to their specific ophthalmic needs.
· Perform detailed eye examinations and assessments, interpreting diagnostic results and supporting the development of treatment plans alongside ophthalmologists.
· Provide expert care and advice for patients undergoing surgical interventions, ensuring safe preparation before surgery and comprehensive care afterwards.
· Act as a patient advocate, ensuring that patients' concerns, questions, and preferences are respected and addressed while also prioritizing their safety and comfort throughout their treatment journey.
· Consider patients' emotional, psychological, and social needs, offering support and referrals to appropriate services where needed, such as low vision aids or counselling.
· Engage in a structured development programme to transition you from Band 5 to Band 6, building competence in advanced ophthalmic care through formal and informal training.
· Participate in continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities, such as attending external ophthalmology conferences, seminars, and training workshops to stay updated with the latest advancements in eye care.
· Regularly engage in reflective practice to critically evaluate your clinical performance, identify areas for improvement, and integrate learning into everyday practice.
· Develop the ability to integrate research and evidence-based practices into patient care, staying informed about the latest treatments and innovations in ophthalmology.
· Undergo regular competency assessments to ensure you meet the clinical standards required for a Band 6 Nurse Practitioner role, including proficiency in advanced diagnostic procedures and independent decision-making.
· Take responsibility for your learning, actively seeking educational materials, resources, and mentorship to further your professional growth and career progression.
This job description is an outline of the role and responsibilities. From time to time, due to the service's needs, we may ask you to flexibly undertake other duties that are consistent with your role and banding, including project work, internal job rotation, and absence cover.
The job description and person specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of the department and the organisation.
Important information for applicants
Flexible Working: If you would like to explore potential options regarding flexible working please speak with the appropriate recruiting/line manager.
DBS Checks: As part of our commitment to a safe working environment, we undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check on all new employees where the role is eligible for a criminal record check . We make offers in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975.

At UHSussex we're proud to be at the heart of the NHS. As one of the UK's largest acute Trusts, we're a leading example of the excellence, the ambition and the values that have embodied the NHS for over 70 years.
Our hard-working, talented and dedicated people work together towards a common goal - to always put our Patient First . In fact our mission is summed up by our 'where better never stops' motto and you will play a part in driving us forwards and in improving the lives of patients across Sussex.
At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always put the Patient First. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of Staff Networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We're proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and a Veteran Aware Trust.
We treat our patients and staff with the same compassion and empathy we expect for ourselves. We're here for them when they need us, and we go above and beyond to meet their needs. This can be seen in our Wellbeing Programme for staff which is extensive and designed to support you when you need it, including where possible, flexible working to support work life balance - because we know that to look after others we must first look after ourselves.
As a university trust and a leader in healthcare research, we value learning, teaching and training so that we can be the best that we can be. From the moment you start with us and throughout your career we will help you to grow and develop. We hope that in choosing UHSussex you are choosing a long and happy career where you will be able to see the difference you make and feel valued for all that you do.
We look forward to receiving your application and the start of your journey with UHSussex.

At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always put the Patient First. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of Staff Networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We're proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and a Veteran Aware Trust.
We treat our patients and staff with the same compassion and empathy we expect for ourselves. We're here for them when they need us, and we go above and beyond to meet their needs. This can be seen in our Wellbeing Programme for staff which is extensive and designed to support you when you need it, including where possible, flexible working to support work life balance - because we know that to look after others we must first look after ourselves.
As a university trust and a leader in healthcare research, we value learning, teaching and training so that we can be the best that we can be. From the moment you start with us and throughout your career we will help you to grow and develop. We hope that in choosing UHSussex you are choosing a long and happy career where you will be able to see the difference you make and feel valued for all that you do.
We look forward to receiving your application and the start of your journey with UHSussex.