Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What is the primary goal of measuring intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma?

1. Determine visual acuity changes

2. Monitor blood flow to the retina

3. Prevent progression of optic nerve damage

4. Assess corneal health

The correct answer is: Prevent progression of optic nerve damage

Measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma is primarily aimed at preventing progression of optic nerve damage. Elevated IOP is a significant risk factor for glaucoma, a condition that can lead to irreversible vision loss if not managed properly. By regularly monitoring IOP, healthcare providers can assess the effectiveness of treatment plans aimed at lowering pressure within the eye, thereby minimizing the risk of damage to the optic nerve. Maintaining a target IOP can help protect against further loss of visual function and preserve the patient's vision over time. Timely interventions based on IOP measurements can lead to adjustments in medications or other therapies, which are critical for managing the disease and preventing its progression. The other options relate to aspects of eye health but do not directly address the critical concern in glaucoma management linked to IOP. While visual acuity can be affected by glaucoma, monitoring changes in acuity is not the primary focus of IOP measurement. Likewise, assessing blood flow to the retina and corneal health, while important for overall ocular health, do not specifically target the prevention of optic nerve damage associated with glaucoma, which is the core rationale for tracking IOP levels in these patients.