Why is BP monitoring not part of routine optometry services in many countries, despite the numerous evidence on the link between BP monitoring and glycaemia and eye diseases.
Still one of my favourite papers, which signified the power of collaborative research and impact of translating research findings into practice. We conducted a survey to find out why Optometrist were not taking BP measurements of their patients. We identified the need and filled it.
We found that by taking BP measurements in optometry practices, Optometrists identified one previously undiagnosed patient with high blood pressure for every 8 adults tested, 28% of previously diagnosed patients whose BPs were poorly controlled. More interestingly, the patients who participated in this study were positively disposed toward the routine measurement of BP by optometrists.
The initial findings [https://lnkd.in/gbJuS2v]. and the follow up on routine BP monitoring were also published (https://lnkd.in/gvfjA_V)
In fact , It may be a good idea to monoter BP when a patient visit the Optometriest sunce there are many ocular complications related to Hypertention.
Now there are good digital moniters available which is very user friendly
There is much diversity in the scope of optometric practices between countries. But, BP reading should be part of routine optometric care. It will always help a lot in guiding referral and investigation plans and management. A BP check may help you avoid inappropriate referral (for instance Imaging) and get your patient right management in due time.
Its more important in countries where attending a hospital is only by appointment whereas people can walk into private optometry practices and get seen in few minutes. Lack of attendance to hospital means patients miss out on regular BP monitoring and those undiagnosed remain missed and could go on to develop complications. It needs to be encouraged in all optometry practices
I recommend the checking of BP as a routine in those adults who complain headache. Checking BP is a simple exercise but we may learn a lot of things.
People who are already hypertensive needs a BP check before we start conducting our several tests, we may be dealing with an emergency case on our chair.
As Optometrist we have a responsibility to educate our clients to know their BP and those with chronic BP need to be encouraged to keep it normal as much as possible.
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