Blog Entry #8- Independent Component 1 Proposal

Where else could I have an opportunity like this?   

For my independent component I plan on learning the fundamentals of using contact lenses, which varies from the type of contacts and liquids used to moisturized the contacts. I will not be learning these "fundamentals" through articles, books, or websites, but from hands on experience. Chino Optometry Center has given me the opportunity to teach patients how to put on contact lenses.

 1. Describe in detail what you plan to do for your 30 hours.

• In order to complete the 30 hours of community service for my independent component I have divided 4 parts of my "activity". First, I will spend 10 hours learning the fundamentals of putting on contact lenses and later on teaching those principles to others. There are 4 different types of contact lenses that I must learn about, which are soft sphere lenses, soft toric lenses, soft multi focal lenses, and hard lenses. Second, I will be learning about inventory maintenance. This includes the different types of liquids used for contact lenses and how to keep tract of your inventory. Third, I will learn the basics of hygiene and safe handling procedures for putting on contact lenses. Lastly, I will be reviewing the examinations and fittings for contact lenses done by the doctor.     

2. Discuss how or what you will do to meet the expectation of showing 30 hours of evidence.

• Office policy and procedures on how to put on contact lenses is an important form given to each employe when aiding a patient. I would be able to use that form when teaching patients how to put on contact lenses. I will also research other important details and aspects needed in order to have a successful "teaching". I can also provide training pamphlets. Each patient receives one to get a general idea of what they need to do when putting on contact lenses. An inventory checklist will also be made to keep track of the inventory needed to conduct contact lens "teachings". With out an inventory checklist everything would be unorganized and crazy. Forms for hygiene and safe handling procedures can also be used to keep a safe and stress free environment for the patients.

3. Explain how what you will be doing will help you explore your topic in more depth.

• Researching the duties an optometrist conducts on a daily basis of the eyes gets repetitive. Being able to explore the different jobs individuals have in an optometry allows me to see how everyone works in unison. Unison is a very imperative trait to have in an optometry. It keeps everything running smoothly on the busiest days. Knowing this allows me to deviate my mind set of optometry from one aspect(what is an optometrist? and what do they do?) to another completely new idea of the field. This "epiphany" of mine allows me to explore my topic in more depth, solely because I am working with a patient instead of reading of the experience in an article. There is only so much a book or website can tell about my topic until I go out and experience it myself. I will gain experience as a future optometrist by learning how to treat and interact with my patients.