Challenging Assumptions in Ophthalmic Nursing: a patient centred approach by Annette Ryman & Kim Liggins
Whilst teaching an Ophthlamic Nursing Course we noticed that there was a distinct lack of conceptual ophthalmic nursing literature, particularly written by ophthalmic nurses. We have both wanted to put ophthalmic nursing on the map and promote it as the innovative, developmental and fascinating profession that it is. We both have a wealth of experience in this field. We feel passionate about working with individuals who have or have experienced some form of visual impairment and we would like to challenge how we, as health care professionals can better serve and enhance the lives of these individuals. We decided to encapsulate all of our experiences and subsequent soap-box moments (and there have been many!) in, what we feel, is an exciting and innovative piece of literature. We do not claim to have all the answers but we hope that those who choose to indulge us will find themselves challenged and reflecting on their respective roles in caring for such a vulnerable group of individuals.
Now available at http://stores.lulu.com/ajryman, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.com, and many other electronic bookstores.
Our book includes scenarios, real episodes of care, practice some of which we are proud to share, other episodes, which might make your toes curl. We aim to engage you in debate, to share practice, to get you think about your own practice, and provoke thinking specifically about the visually impaired patient as a whole person with their own unique set of circumstances. We know that this book may be contentious but we are satisfied that we are attempting to move practice forward. Join our forum and let us know what you think. We have broad shoulders so be honest. If you think that you can do better or have done better share it with us. Let’s put our speciality on the map and improve the care that we give.
We are not just about promoting our book, we plan to set up a forum about Ophthalmic Nursing to include all aspects of practice, treatment, research etc. We hope that you will join our forum, use it as a point of reference and to engage in discussions relating to current issues. It doesn’t matter what level you are working at in ophthalmic nursing. It doesn’t even matter if you are not a nurse. We are also open to suggestions from people with visual impairments and their carers or significant others. We aim to provide a resource which will appeal to people of all levels. This is an exciting venture and we are hoping that you will find the site an informative and useful resource. Your input is crucial in developing this site so please feel free to participate. This is about sharing knowledge and ideas at all levels. This is also about raising the profile of ophthalmic nursing practice. We know that you may be doing some amazing things in your practice. Please share it with us. Watch this space...there is much more to come!
If you wish to contact either Annette or Kim
annette@ophthalmic-nursing.co.uk
© Copyrights Reserved – Annette Ryman & Kim Liggins 2007