Pre-Clinical Internship Workshop (01-06-2025)

 Event Date and year: 01st June 2025

Event brief description – 

A pre-clinical internship workshop on soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lens fitting is a crucial hands-on learning experience for optometry students. This workshop bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical practice, equipping students with essential skills required for successful contact lens fitting and patient management.

The workshop typically begins with a theoretical overview of contact lens materials, designs, and indications. Emphasis is placed on understanding the anatomy of the eye, tear film dynamics, and corneal measurements. Students are then introduced to the fitting process of soft contact lenses, including lens selection, application and removal techniques, patient instruction, and aftercare.

The training also covers RGP lens fitting, which requires more precision and a deeper understanding of corneal topography and lens customization. Participants practice trial lens fitting, evaluation of lens movement, centration, and fluorescein pattern interpretation.

Throughout the workshop, students work under the guidance of experienced practitioners, receiving real-time feedback to refine their techniques. This practical exposure enhances their confidence and competence, ensuring they are better prepared for real-world clinical scenarios.

By the end of the workshop, students gain valuable skills in fitting, assessing, and managing patients with both soft and RGP lenses, forming a strong foundation for future clinical practice.

Event Detailed Description

The pre-clinical internship workshop on soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lens fitting is an integral part of optometry education, designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required for effective contact lens practice. This workshop bridges the gap between classroom-based theoretical learning and real-world clinical experience, preparing students to manage a variety of patient needs in professional settings.

The workshop typically begins with a detailed theoretical session that covers the basic anatomy and physiology of the eye, with special emphasis on the cornea, tear film, and ocular surface — all crucial components in successful contact lens wear. Students are introduced to various types of contact lenses, including their materials, design differences, and indications. Key topics such as oxygen permeability, lens modulus, and wettability are discussed to help students understand how material properties influence lens performance and patient comfort.

The practical segment starts with soft contact lens fitting. Students are guided through the step-by-step process of patient assessment, lens selection, insertion and removal techniques, and evaluation of lens fit. They also learn how to educate patients about lens hygiene, wear schedules, and follow-up care. This part of the training emphasizes the importance of patient communication, compliance, and safety, which are essential for long-term lens success.

The second part of the workshop focuses on rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. Unlike soft lenses, RGPs require a more in-depth understanding of corneal topography, tear film interaction, and lens customization. Students are taught how to take accurate keratometry and topography readings, select initial trial lenses, and assess lens fit using fluorescein staining patterns. The ability to interpret these patterns — including central bearing, mid-peripheral pooling, and edge lift — is crucial for identifying and correcting fit-related issues. RGP lenses, while less commonly prescribed than soft lenses, offer superior visual outcomes in certain conditions such as keratoconus, post-surgical corneas, or high astigmatism, making this training highly valuable.

Throughout the workshop, students receive hands-on experience under the close supervision of experienced optometrists or clinical instructors. They work on both manikins and volunteer patients, allowing for real-time application of their skills. Feedback is provided continuously, helping students refine their technique and build confidence in a controlled and supportive environment.

By the end of the workshop, participants are expected to demonstrate proficiency in the fitting, assessment, and handling of both soft and RGP lenses. They should also be able to recognize and manage common issues such as lens intolerance, poor fit, or patient non-compliance. The knowledge and experience gained through this workshop are critical for the clinical phase of their education and beyond.

Overall, the pre-clinical internship workshop on contact lens fitting lays a strong foundation for future clinical practice. It instills in students the technical skills, critical thinking, and patient interaction abilities necessary to become competent, confident, and compassionate optometrists.

Department Name –Department of Optometry

Event Outcome:

By the end of the pre-clinical internship workshop on soft and RGP contact lens fitting, students gain hands-on experience and foundational skills necessary for effective contact lens practice. They learn to assess patients, select appropriate lenses, perform proper insertion and removal techniques, evaluate lens fit, and manage common fitting issues. The workshop enhances their confidence, clinical decision-making, and communication skills, preparing them for real-world patient care and advancing their readiness for clinical internships.

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