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General

Sound OptometrySound Optometry
Sound Optometry
Domains: Clinical Practice, Communication

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Welcome to Sound Optometry, a podcast from Docet hosted by Michelle Hanratty, an IP optometrist with over 20 years’ experience in both high street and hospital settings. Each month, through case studies and in-depth conversations, we explore the topics that matter most to you as an optometrist and are relevant to everyday practice. 

Episode 3 – Flashes and Floaters

In this episode, Michelle delves into the reasons why retinal detachment is a leading cause of complaint to the General Optical Council’s (GOC) Fitness to Practice committee. She is joined by Stephen Lash, Consultant Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon, who provides some clinical pearls to help the optometrist when a posterior vitreous or retinal detachment is suspected. Contributing to this discussion is Roshni Kanabar, Clinical and Regulatory Advisor for the Association of Optometrists (AOP), who gives essential tips on patient communication and record keeping. 

Subscribe to the series on your preferred podcast player so you don’t miss an episode. You can access all episodes of Sound Optometry here.

First published: September 2020
Last reviewed: November 2025

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    Communication 

    s.2 Communicate effectively with patients 

    • Able to elicit the detail and relevance of any significant signs and symptoms from a patient reporting flashing lights or floaters. 
    • Able to convey the importance of on referral for investigation to patients that presnt with signs of a retinal tear or detachment. 

    Clinical Practice 

    s.5 Keep your knowledge and skills up to date 

    • Able to identify the signs of a retinal tear or detachment. 
    • Knowledge about the differential diagnoses of a retinal tear or detachment. 

    s.7 Conduct appropriate assessments, examinations, treatments and referrals 

    • Knowledge about the red flag signs and symptoms relating to flashes and floaters that indicate emergency referral. 
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      • Audio track

        Please listen to the podcast available here or through your preferred podcast listening app. Select the blue arrow at the bottom of the player to access various podcast apps.

      • Key Points

        • AOP members and legal representation
        • Dilation dilemma – when to dilate and the risk of flashes and floaters leading to a retinal detachment
        • Managing patient expectations and systematically examining the eye
        • Essentials of record keeping and communicating management decisions to patients
        • Timely referral of patients to minimise the risk of significant visual loss
        • Treatment for retinal tear or detachment and post-operative considerations.
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