Tonometer Maintenance: Ensuring Accuracy and Patient Safety

A tonometer is a type of ophthalmic equipment. Ophthalmic equipment is used to diagnose and treat eye problems. There are a number of maintenance procedures that should be considered to reduce deterioration of tonometry equipment and prevent patient injury.

Tonometers

• A tonometer is used to measure intraocular pressure (IOP). IOP refers to the constant internal pressure that allows the eye to maintain its shape. Elevated IOP can result in glaucoma.

Cleaning

• All ophthalmic equipment, including tonometers, should be cleaned carefully using non-abrasive cleaners. Specific cleaning products are typically recommended by the tool's manufacturer. Periodic cleaning is recommended, but excessive cleaning can cause wear.

Fungus

• It is common for fungus to grow on ophthalmic tools such as tonometers. Fungus is difficult to detect in its early stages of growth. As removing fungus is difficult, it is recommended that tonometers be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent fungus growth.