To measure intraocular pressure this procedure is done?

Appeared in: AIIMS CRE 2025

Explanation

Tonometry is the specific diagnostic test used to measure the fluid pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP).
Measuring IOP is critical for the early detection and management of glaucoma, a condition where elevated pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to irreversible vision loss.
A normal IOP range is generally considered to be between 10 and 21 mmHg. Readings above this range may indicate a risk for glaucoma.

Option A: The caloric test assesses the vestibular system (balance function) by stimulating the inner ear with temperature changes, not eye pressure.
Option B: Keratometry measures the curvature of the cornea, not the internal pressure of the eye.
Option D: A visual acuity test measures the sharpness and clarity of vision; it does not measure pressure.

Visual 1: Diagram: Illustration of a Goldmann applanation tonometer gently touching the cornea to measure intraocular pressure.
Visual 2: Chart: A visual guide comparing normal IOP (10-21 mmHg) with elevated IOP levels seen in glaucoma.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Diagnostic Ophthalmic Procedures as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Early detection of elevated IOP through tonometry is a key nursing role in preventing blindness from glaucoma, especially in high-risk populations (e.g., older adults, individuals with a family history).
Nurses must educate patients who have received anesthetic eye drops for tonometry not to rub their eyes for at least 30 minutes post-procedure to prevent corneal abrasion while the eye is numb.
What if? If a patient's tonometry reading is 25 mmHg, the nurse's priority is to document the finding, inform the healthcare provider, and ensure the patient understands the need for a follow-up appointment with an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive glaucoma evaluation, as this reading is above the normal range.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of specific diagnostic procedures related to the eye.
First, identify the key concept in the question stem: 'measure intraocular pressure'.
Next, systematically review each option and recall its primary function.
Tonometry is the specific medical term for the measurement of intraocular pressure.
Eliminate the other options by defining their distinct purposes: Caloric test (balance/vestibular system), Keratometry (corneal curvature), and Visual acuity test (vision sharpness).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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