The Boroondara Day Surgery nursing team including Suzanne Jeffrey (centre).
Behind every sight-saving procedure performed at Vision Hospital Group’s (VHG) network of day hospitals is a team of dedicated ophthalmic nurses – highly skilled professionals who care deeply for their patients and provide essential theatre support to keep things running smoothly.
In this article, three VHG nurses share their stories about ophthalmic nursing and the critical role that nurses play in enhancing patient care and outcomes.
A Nursing Team Like No Other
Michelle McGeary, North Queensland Day Surgery Centre, QLD
Michelle McGeary (left) with NQDSC nurses Kat, Tania and Callan.
Scrub nurse Michelle McGeary embraces the diversity that each day brings at North Queensland Day Surgery Centre (NQDSC) in Townsville, describing ophthalmic nursing as a “fantastic and completely underrated specialty with great work-life balance”.
“We remove a lot of cataracts, especially dense cataracts,” said Ms McGeary.
“What I love most is when the drape comes off and the patient is incredibly emotional because they can see much better already – and it’s not even their best vision yet! Giving someone back their quality of life and independence is priceless and a privilege to be part of.”
Ms McGeary, who started her nursing career in regional Victoria before moving to Townsville 20 years ago, said the teamwork at NQDSC is unlike any other place she’s worked at previously.
“When you work with the same people day in and day out, and also socialise outside of work, you just know each other so well – you’re in sync and there’s a level of unspoken commitment and trust. We are always there to back each other. In theatre, we’ll communicate with each other through our eyes, with a gesture or a shrug or by holding up a syringe to avoid stressing the surgeon and the patient.
“Because VHG day surgeries like NQDSC specialise in ophthalmic procedures, our nurses require a specialised skill set. We’re always watching and anticipating, so there are very few surprises. The surgeons trust us. They know if they need something, it will be right there for them. If they need anterior retractors, we’ve got them ready. If there’s a small pupil on the screen, we’re on it.”
Ms McGeary said ophthalmic nursing is “the perfect combination of hands-on problem-solving, working closely in a team and making a real difference to people’s lives every day”.
The Rhythm Of Ophthalmic Surgery
Gabriela Kalofonos, Forest Road Day Surgery, NSW
Gabriela Kalofonos at an AONA event held at Forest Road Day Surgery.
Director of Nursing, Gabriela Kalofonos, has been a registered nurse for nearly 25 years, with 17 of those dedicated to ophthalmic nursing. She speaks proudly about the role that ophthalmic nurses play across the entire surgical journey at Forest Road Day Surgery in Hurstville, Sydney.
“It’s the nurses who are with the patients from start to finish,” said Ms Kalofonos.
“We are the first and last people they speak to. The ones who prepare them for surgery, stay with them throughout the procedure and guide them through recovery. And it’s our job to help those patients feel safe, informed and cared for at every step.”
Echoing Ms McGeary’s sentiments, Ms Kalofonos said it makes sense to staff ophthalmic day surgeries with ophthalmic nurses.
“The eyes may seem like a small part of the human body, but they are very complex. Nurses who have specific ophthalmic knowledge and expertise can reassure patients about the procedure, confidently answer questions, validate concerns or advocate on their behalf.
“Many of our patients are elderly and nervous, or unaware of what to expect. They’re scared about losing their vision and independence. Our confidence instils a lot of trust and often alleviates patient anxiety during what can be quite a frightening time for them.”
Ms Kalofonos said having nurses with specific ophthalmic experience can make a big difference in how relaxed surgeons feel in the operating room. “If the nurse understands what is happening in the operation and why, they then know when and how to assist. It’s all about anticipation and preparation. Strong nursing support for the surgeons and anaesthetists keeps the theatre flowing and the list running smoothly.
“There’s a real rhythm to ophthalmic surgeries that our ophthalmic nurses have mastered and everyone can feel it – even the patients.”
Ms Kalofonos also serves as Industry Liaison and NSW Representative on the Australian Ophthalmic Nurses’ Association (AONA) committee, where she secures industry sponsorship and helps organise clinical education events.
“AONA is a fantastic professional development resource for any nurse involved in ophthalmic patient care,” she said. “It’s nice to be able to give back to the profession, especially helping younger nurses who have only just discovered the joys of working in eye care.”
Going Above And Beyond
Suzanne Jeffrey, Boroondara Day Surgery, VIC
The Boroondara Day Surgery nursing team including Suzanne Jeffrey (centre).
Suzanne Jeffrey has spent the last ten years in the field of ophthalmic nursing, drawn to the precision and fast-paced nature of ophthalmic surgery, as well as the close-knit teamwork required.
She recounts a recent patient at Boroondara Day Surgery in Melbourne’s inner east, who was booked in for cataract surgery but had significant anxiety, mobility challenges and non-verbal communication.
“Our Boroondara team is known for going above and beyond in patient care,” said Ms Jeffrey. “On this particular occasion, we all came together to create a calm, supportive environment. We adapted our usual procedures to aid in the patient’s safe recovery, spent extra time with him to build trust, and included the patient’s carer during his stay for a familiar face and to ensure continuity of care.
“It was a true team effort and a perfect example of patient-centred care.”
She said watching patients straight after their operation, when they are able to see clearly for the first time in weeks, months or even years, is a constant reminder of the importance of her chosen profession and the difference she makes to other people’s lives.
“It is incredibly rewarding and quite emotional – vision is such a vital sense.”
Ms Jeffrey said another critical aspect of her role is to understand the surgeon’s preferences and the flow of the procedure. “Anticipation and preparation allow you to stay one step ahead. It builds trust and efficiency, making the whole surgical experience smoother for everyone involved.
“Ophthalmic nursing has taught me the value of patience and precision. Every detail matters, and the smallest actions can make a significant difference in the patient’s recovery.”
Vision Hospital Group operates a national network of ophthalmic day surgeries, with locations in NSW, QLD, SA and VIC. Learn more. (LINK is: Day Surgeries Australia | Vision Hospital Group)
