Repeatability of Goldmann tonometry performed by optometry students on glaucoma patients

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Optometry
• Glaucoma Research

Background:

• Goldmann tonometry is a standard method for measuring intraocular pressure (IOP).
• Repeatability of tonometry measurements is crucial for accurate glaucoma diagnosis and management.
• Assessing the performance of optometry students in clinical procedures is essential for training quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the repeatability of masked Goldmann tonometry.
• To compare the performance of optometry students (interns) with experienced optometrists.
• To identify factors influencing tonometry measurement variability in glaucoma patients.

Main Methods:

• Masked Goldmann tonometry was performed by two fourth-year optometry interns and one attending optometrist on glaucoma patients.
• Each examiner conducted three sequential measurements on each eye.
• Data analysis included coefficient of variation and interobserver differences.

Main Results:

• Interns exhibited lower intraobserver and interobserver repeatability (CV: 9.1-12.1%) compared to optometrists (CV: 6.4-6.6%).
• Intern measurements showed increased variability and overestimation at higher IOP levels, influenced by both intern and patient factors.
• Optometrist measurements were more consistent and not affected by IOP levels.

Conclusions:

• Optometry student performance in masked Goldmann tonometry is less repeatable than that of experienced optometrists.
• Variability in intern measurements increases with higher intraocular pressure and is influenced by patient-specific factors.
• Enhanced clinical exposure to patients with elevated IOP and further research on factors affecting trainee tonometry are necessary.