Certified Paraoptometric (CPO) Practice Exam

Tonometry is the standard procedure used to measure intraocular pressure (IOP), which is crucial for diagnosing conditions like glaucoma. This measurement is vital for assessing the risk of optic nerve damage, and it can be performed using various methods, such as applanation tonometry and non-contact tonometry (often referred to as the "air puff" test).

The importance of measuring IOP lies in its direct correlation with the likelihood of developing glaucoma; elevated intraocular pressure can indicate that the eye is at increased risk for this condition. By determining the pressure within the eye, practitioners can monitor changes over time and make informed decisions regarding treatment options.

Other procedures listed serve different purposes. Fluorescein angiography is used to visualize blood flow in the retina and identify conditions affecting retinal health; perimetry assesses the visual field to detect blind spots or peripheral vision loss; and visual field tests are employed to map out the patient's field of vision. While these tests contribute valuable information for overall eye health and the diagnosis of ocular diseases, they do not measure intraocular pressure.