[Retinography and tonometry in primary care: techniques incorporated into routine nursing practice]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Diabetology
• Primary Care Medicine

Background:

• Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of vision loss.
• Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection and management of diabetic eye complications.
• Primary care plays a vital role in managing diabetic patients' overall health, including eye care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the frequency of eye fundus examinations in diabetic patients.
• To determine the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and intraocular pressure (IOP).
• To evaluate the agreement in retinography interpretation and identify factors associated with retinopathy.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive observational study was conducted in a primary care setting.
• Visual screening included retinography and tonometry performed by a nurse.
• Data on patient demographics, diabetes type, treatment, and comorbidities were collected.

Main Results:

• Eye screening coverage for diabetic patients reached 50%, an increase from the previous year.
• Diabetic retinopathy was present in 38% of patients; moderate agreement was found in retinograph interpretation.
• Significant variables associated with retinopathy included diabetes type, treatment, dyslipidemia, nephropathy, disease duration, and glycated hemoglobin. Mean IOP was 14.66 mmHg, with 5% having elevated IOP (>21 mmHg).

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive eye screening for diabetic patients should be integrated into primary care.
• Referrals to specialists should be reserved for cases with specific criteria, diagnostic uncertainty, or technical issues.
• This approach optimizes resource allocation and improves patient outcomes for diabetic eye disease.