ORBIS--training nurses worldwide in ophthalmic care

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Education
• Nursing Science

Background:

• The ORBIS organization's mission focuses on preventing blindness through global education initiatives.
• Nurses play a pivotal role in the success of ORBIS's educational programs and patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical role of nurses within the ORBIS teaching mission.
• To outline the needs assessment process and educational programs developed for nursing staff.
• To discuss the integration of the biomedical engineering department in supporting nursing education.

Main Methods:

• Review of the ORBIS organizational structure and its educational objectives.
• Analysis of the specific roles and responsibilities of head nurses, nurse educators, and staff nurses.
• Examination of the needs assessment methodology used to identify educational gaps.
• Description of the educational programs designed to address identified nursing needs.

Main Results:

• The study underscores the multifaceted contributions of nurses at various levels within the ORBIS framework.
• A systematic approach to needs assessment was employed to tailor educational interventions.
• Diverse programs were developed and implemented to enhance nursing skills and knowledge relevant to blindness prevention.
• Collaboration between nursing staff and the biomedical engineering department was identified as crucial for program success.

Conclusions:

• The ORBIS model effectively integrates nursing education into its core mission of preventing blindness.
• Tailored educational programs, informed by needs assessments, are essential for empowering nurses.
• Interdepartmental collaboration, particularly with biomedical engineering, enhances the scope and impact of nursing education in ophthalmology.