Do Ophthalmology Residents Know How to Check the Calibration of a Goldmann Applanation Tonometer?

Abstract Purpose: A observational study to determine if ophthalmology residents know how to check Goldmann Applanation Tonometer (GAT) calibration.Methods: The step-by-step technique for checking the calibration of a GAT was taken from the manufacturer’s manual and developed into a mark sheet. Ophthalmology residents in years 2-8 of training from ten hospitals were individually observed and assessed checking calibration of a GAT. Participation was voluntary. Contact between participants was minimised to prevent communication about the study. Results: 74% (n = 20) of eligible ophthalmology residents (years 2-8) from 10 hospitals (2 teaching hospitals and 8 local general hospitals) were observed checking GAT calibration. Only 45% (n=9; CI: 26-66%) of ophthalmology residents were able to correctly check GAT calibration. Failure to mount the prism in the prism holder accounted for most cases of failure to correctly check GAT calibration. Conclusions: Most ophthalmology residents were unable to correctly check GAT calibration. Although better than previously published results, this observational study shows that further training and assessment is required for ophthalmology residents to learn the technique of checking GAT calibration.