Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What should be monitored over a period of time if a patient has had a steroid injection?

1. Visual acuity

2. Intraocular pressure

3. Retinal health

4. Corneal thickness

The correct answer is: Intraocular pressure

Monitoring intraocular pressure is crucial after a patient receives a steroid injection because steroids can induce an increase in intraocular pressure, potentially leading to steroid-induced glaucoma. This is particularly important in patients who may have pre-existing conditions that predispose them to elevated intraocular pressure or glaucoma. Regular checks help in early detection and management of any pressure changes, reducing the risk of optic nerve damage. While visual acuity, retinal health, and corneal thickness are also important parameters in ophthalmic care, they are not as directly influenced by steroid injections as intraocular pressure. Visual acuity monitoring is more relevant for assessing changes in vision rather than pressure-related complications. Retinal health evaluation generally focuses on other conditions rather than direct steroid effects, and corneal thickness, while important in specific contexts, is not the primary concern following steroid injections. Hence, monitoring intraocular pressure is the most pertinent in this scenario.