- Reference Number: HEY362/2025
- Departments: Ophthalmology Department, Orthoptic
- Last Updated: 30 April 2025
Introduction
This leaflet has been produced to give you general information about the Orthoptic Department. Most of your questions should have been answered by this leaflet. It is not meant to replace the discussion between you and your child’s orthoptist but may act as a starting point for discussion.
If after reading this leaflet you have any concerns or require further explanation, please discuss this with a member of the healthcare team.
Who is the Orthoptist?
The orthoptist is a member of the eye care team who is trained in the management of children’s eye problems.
Where is the department?
The orthoptic department is part of the Eye Clinic at Hull Royal Infirmary which is situated on the ground floor of the Clinical Skills Building, Fountain Street. If you come to the infirmary by car, parking is available in Argyle Street car park for which there is a charge. On arrival, please report to the Eye Clinic reception desk where you will be directed to the orthoptic department.
How long will the appointment take?
You should expect to be in the clinic for at least 20 minutes, although occasionally tests may take up to an hour. The department is a teaching department therefore we may ask if your child can be examined by an orthoptic student under the direction of a clinical tutor. If you have any objections to this, please let the staff know.
Will we have to wait?
We try hard to see your child on time, however as you will appreciate emergency patients sometimes have to take priority. You can help us by arriving on time. Please allow enough time to park and find the department. If you are late, we will try and fit your child in, but there may be a long wait before we can do so.
How will my child be tested?
Your child will be asked to look at pictures and / or match letters. There is no need for your child to worry about the tests, they are chosen to match your child’s age and ability, and most children enjoy doing them. Your child may need to wear a patch for a few minutes so that the eyes can be tested separately. If your child has glasses, please remember to bring them. No eye drops are used for orthoptic tests.
Who should accompany my child?
Ideally, one parent or guardian should accompany the child. If you have other children, it is helpful if you can arrange to have them looked after whilst you are attending the clinic. By providing a quiet environment, without any distractions, the child being tested will be able to concentrate and is more likely to have a successful test. Clinic space is limited so it is also helpful if only one parent comes into the clinic while your child is being tested.
What if I cannot keep the appointment for my child? happens afterwards?
If you are unable to attend, please let us know as soon as possible. Our direct line telephone number is tel: 01482 816605 (with a 24-hour answerphone). We will arrange another time for your child to be seen. If your child fails to attend an appointment, you will receive a letter informing you of this. Another appointment will not automatically be sent.
Should you require further advice on the issues contained in this leaflet, please do not hesitate to contact the Orthoptic Department tel: 01482 816605
