Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

In which situation is intraocular pressure typically measured?

1. During general eye exams

2. For assessing retinal detachment

3. In situations of suspected glaucoma

4. During cataract evaluations

The correct answer is: In situations of suspected glaucoma

Intraocular pressure (IOP) is typically measured in situations of suspected glaucoma because elevated IOP is one of the primary risk factors associated with this condition. Glaucoma involves damage to the optic nerve, and monitoring IOP is crucial for diagnosing and managing the disease. Regular measurement of IOP helps in identifying changes that may indicate the development of glaucoma or worsening of pre-existing glaucoma, allowing for timely intervention. While intraocular pressure may also be checked during general eye exams, the specific focus on suspected glaucoma underscores its importance in that context. In evaluating retinal detachment, the emphasis is more on visual acuity and the examination of the retina rather than directly measuring IOP. Similarly, during cataract evaluations, the focus is primarily on assessing the cataract and its impact on vision, rather than on IOP measurement. Therefore, measuring intraocular pressure is particularly critical in diagnosing and managing glaucoma, making this situation the most relevant for IOP assessments.