Sample interview questions: Can you describe your experience in managing and treating common ophthalmic emergencies?
Sample answer:
- Red Eye:
- Assess for conjunctivitis, episcleritis, and uveitis.
- Prescribe antibiotic drops for bacterial conjunctivitis.
- Recommend cold compresses for episcleritis.
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Refer to an ophthalmologist for uveitis.
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Corneal Abrasion:
- Anesthetize the eye with proparacaine drops.
- Fluorescein stain the abrasion to visualize its extent.
- Prescribe antibiotic drops and pain medication.
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Patch the eye for 24-48 hours.
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Chemical Burn:
- Immediately flush the eye with copious amounts of water or saline for at least 15 minutes.
- Neutralize the chemical with appropriate agent (e.g., sodium bicarbonate for acids, acetic acid for bases).
- Prescribe antibiotic drops, pain medication, and cycloplegic drops.
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Refer to an ophthalmologist for severe burns.
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Foreign Body in the Eye:
- Anesthetize the eye with proparacaine drops.
- Attempt to remove the foreign body with a cotton swab or blunt instrument.
- Irrigate the eye with saline if necessary.
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Prescribe antibiotic drops and pain medication.
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Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma:
- Measure intraocular pressure (IOP).
- Prescribe topical pilocarpine and timolol drops.
- Administer intravenous mannitol to lower IOP.
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Refer to an ophthalmologist for urgent surgery.
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Central Retinal Artery Occlusion:
- Assess visual acuity and pupillary response.
- Prescribe ocular massage and aspirin.
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Refer to an ophthalmologist for immediate evaluation and treatment.
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/2_0_3/Nurse%20Practitioner%20%28NP%29