Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 10, 2025
09:03
Nasal Brushing Sampling and Processing Using Digital High Speed Ciliary Videomicroscopy – Adaptation for the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published on: November 7, 2020
5.3K
Guidelines and Recommendations for Tonometry Use during the COVID-19 Era
Enmar M Almazyad1, Sally Ameen2, Mohammad A Khan3
1Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Middle East African Journal of Ophthalmology
|September 3, 2020
Summary
This review addresses the uncertainty surrounding Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission via tears and its implications for tonometry. It provides evidence-based guidelines for ophthalmologists practicing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has significantly impacted eye care practices.
- Limited evidence exists regarding SARS-CoV-2 transmission through ocular routes, particularly tears.
- The role of the cornea and conjunctiva as infection gateways requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on SARS-CoV-2 transmission through tears.
- To evaluate the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission via tonometry.
- To establish evidence-based recommendations for tonometry practice in the COVID-19 era.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature on SARS-CoV-2 and ocular transmission.
- Analysis of case reports and studies related to tonometry and viral transmission.
- Consultation of international ophthalmological guidelines and best practices.
Main Results:
- Conflicting and weak evidence on SARS-CoV-2 transmission through tears.
- No documented cases of SARS-CoV-2 transmission through tonometry reported to date.
- Ocular surface (cornea, conjunctiva) as a potential, though not well-studied, route for infection.
Conclusions:
- Ophthalmologists need clear guidelines for safe tonometry during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Recommendations focus on minimizing potential transmission risks.
- Further research is needed to clarify SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics in the ocular environment.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Glaucoma: Overview
1.1K
Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure that damages the retina and optic nerve, leading to irreversible blindness if left untreated. The human eye has various components, including the cornea, iris, pupil, lens, and optic nerve. Aqueous humor is secreted by the epithelium of the ciliary body in the posterior chamber and flows through the trabecular meshwork and canal of Schlemm, maintaining normal intraocular pressure. The trabecular meshwork and the canal...
1.1K
01:27Open Angle Glaucoma: Treatment
864
In open-angle glaucoma, the iridocorneal angle remains open, but the trabecular meshwork becomes stiff, slowing down the outflow of aqueous humor. This causes a buildup of aqueous humor in the anterior chamber, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. The treatment for open-angle glaucoma focuses on reducing the elevated intraocular pressure by either decreasing the secretion of aqueous humor or increasing its outflow.
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
864
01:28Special considerations while measuring blood pressure
1.0K
When assessing blood pressure (BP), healthcare professionals must consider various factors and potential unexpected outcomes to ensure accurate readings and provide proper patient care. Adhering to these guidelines is essential to achieving the most reliable results.
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
1.0K
01:19Guidelines For Measuring Vital Signs
2.5K
Following these guidelines can help nurses accurately measure vital signs, assess changes in patient conditions, and provide timely treatment when necessary. Adhering closely to the guidelines ensures the accuracy and reliability of the results.
Before taking a patient's vital signs, a nurse would consider and assess the patient's comfort level and ensure appropriate equipment is available.
Before taking a patient's vital signs, a nurse would consider and assess the patient's comfort level and ensure appropriate equipment is available.
2.5K
01:10Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Assessing Blood Pressure
744
Accurate blood pressure assessment is crucial for diagnosing and managing various health conditions. To ensure the reliability of these measurements, healthcare professionals must adhere to standardized pre-procedural guidelines. These guidelines enhance patient safety and improve the overall quality of healthcare. The following steps are essential for obtaining accurate and consistent blood pressure readings, from using the appropriate tools to ensuring effective communication with the...
744
01:28Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment
997
Angle-closure glaucoma, or closed-angle glaucoma, is an eye condition where the iris bulges out and blocks the iridocorneal angle, resulting in a buildup of aqueous humor and increased intraocular pressure. Immediate medical attention is necessary due to the sudden onset of symptoms. The treatment for angle-closure glaucoma includes short-term and long-term approaches. Short-term treatment involves using eye drops like pilocarpine to lower intraocular pressure by increasing aqueous humor...
997