A tonometer is a fundamental tool for many ophthalmologists, which means it sees a lot of use. However, before and after an eye test, there’s some necessary maintenance that ophthalmologists need to know how to perform on tools such as a tonometer. Continue reading to learn how to clean a tonometer probe properly with the following steps.
Cleaning the Probe Base
The first step for how to clean a tonometer probe is to replace or clean the base, as dust and other small particles can collect on the device and affect its performance over time. If a tonometer probe is not working properly, this is likely a sign that you need to clean it or replace it.
- When you are cleaning the tonometer probe base, you will need to unscrew the probe collar before you can remove the base from the tonometer. Then, inject isopropyl alcohol with either a syringe or a pipette. Once you are finished with the isopropyl alcohol, you will then need to dry it by blowing compressed air onto the probe base. Compressed air will ensure you can reach all the tough parts of your tonometer.
- After the probe base of the tonometer in completely dry, you can then screw the collar back on.
Cleaning the Tonometer
The tonometer probe base is an important piece when it comes to maintenance, but that’s not the only part of the device you will need to clean. For the rest of the tonometer, you will want to take the following steps to ensure the device is clean for every use.
- Be sure to use a soft, wet cloth with a nonabrasive cleaner or make use of a solution with alcohol and water.
- Then, take the wet cloth and wipe it carefully on the tonometer’s surface. Be sure to dry the entire apparatus once you are finished.
Cleaning a tonometer properly is something every eye doctor should abide by to ensure safe care. Another key to reusing your tonometer is making sure you have the necessary accessories for proper use. Automated Opthalmics, Inc. provides disposable tonometer tips and other supplies for eye care, all of which are available on our website.