Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

The calibration of an applanation tonometer should be checked at which settings?

1. 0, 2, 6

2. 1, 3, 5

3. 0, 4, 8

4. 2, 3, 4

The correct answer is: 0, 2, 6

The calibration of an applanation tonometer is crucial for ensuring accurate intraocular pressure measurements. Checking the calibration at the settings of 0, 2, and 6 mmHg helps verify the instrument's accuracy across a range of clinically relevant pressures. Starting with 0 mmHg establishes a baseline, ensuring that the tonometer reads zero when there is no pressure applied. The intermediate points, such as 2 mmHg and then at 6 mmHg, allow for checking the accuracy at lower and middle pressure values which are frequently encountered in practice, thus providing a comprehensive assessment of the tonometer's calibration throughout this range. By using these settings, practitioners can be more confident in the reliability of the measurements taken during patient assessments. Accurate calibration is essential in diagnosing and managing ocular conditions, especially in the context of glaucoma where precise intraocular pressure readings are vital.