OPT010: Glaucoma 1

This module aims to increase your knowledge and understanding in the assessment of anterior segment, IOP measurement disc evaluation and visual fields.

This module builds on the theoretical knowledge gained in OPT009 and aims to provide practical skills and knowledge for optometrists to participate in monitoring those suspected of having glaucoma or ocular hypertension (OHT), who have been diagnosed in secondary care but who are not receiving treatment.

Along with OPT009, this module is accredited by the College of Optometrists to provide the Professional Certificate in Glaucoma, and there are CET points available on completion of applicable elements.

The follow-on module, OPT031 – Glaucoma Level 2, develops these topics further and is accredited for the Higher Certificate in Glaucoma. There will also be a practical training day that requires attendance in Cardiff and precise arrangements for practical sessions will be dependent on COVID-19 guidance at the time.

This module, along with OPT009, is accredited by The College of Optometrists for the Professional Certificate in Glaucoma.

Learning objectives

Upon completion of this module, you should be able to:

• evaluate and apply modern key concepts of glaucoma care and be able to apply them to challenges within your environment and practice
• address and reflect on the benefit of inter-professional teamwork in the delivery of glaucoma care in optometry
• present balanced and informed arguments, incorporating critical judgment and decision-making in practical assessments
• effectively reflect on and evaluate learning
• assess the signs and symptoms of potential glaucoma eye disease to make a differential diagnosis and to rank options for diagnosis and management, with a focus on community optometric practice
• problem solve and develop solutions/management plans, in community optometric settings, in cases with potential glaucoma, OHT, suspect glaucoma and primary angle closure glaucoma based on evidence and sound professional and clinical judgment.

How the module will be delivered

This module is taught using online Xerte sessions of guided learning, online lectures and a webinar, as well as a contact day in Cardiff which will include workshops, tutorials, case discussions and formative practical skills training. Supporting resources and references will be supplied via Learning Central, the university's virtual learning environment. In addition, there will be webinars, including a welcome webinar.

Discussion boards accessed via Learning Central will provide a platform for students to discuss any questions or queries that come up throughout the term with the course tutors and their peers.

Syllabus content

• Structure and physiology of the healthy and glaucomatous optic nerve
• Physiology of aqueous production and drainage
• Classification of glaucoma
• Diagnosis of OHT
• The risk factors for conversion from OHT to COAG
• Indication for treatment of OHT and suspect glaucoma
• Recommended follow-up intervals for OHT and suspected glaucoma
• The use of tonometry to assess intraocular pressure, its interpretation and integration with other clinical data
• The clinical assessment of the optic nerve head, and the integration of this information with other clinical data
• The use of perimetric techniques, and their interpretation and integration with other clinical data
• Corneal pachymetry, and its interpretation and integration with other clinical data
• The clinical assessment of the anterior segment concerning refining the risk of glaucoma and influencing the management of OHT and glaucoma

Skills that will be practised and developed

Academic skills

• Advance your knowledge and understanding
• Collate and synthesise information from several resources to improve learning
• Write concisely and clearly for the academic and clinical community
• Interpret data

Generic skills

• Manage projects and time
• Work independently
• Use a range of IT software packages and online resources
• Problem-solving

How the module will be assessed

This module contains formative and summative assessments

Formative coursework (non-marked)

• There is a case-based presentation which the student can submit for feedback
• Formative tests: There are online EMCQ and other tests incorporated within the learning resources that enable you to assess comprehension and application of your learning and understanding

Summative coursework

• Written coursework (50%): Students are required to submit a referenced written assignment related to the management of glaucoma. Details are given on the online platform
• Practical assessment (50%): Students will sit a station-style assessment to test their practical skills

Useful websites

Glaucoma: Diagnosis and management of chronic open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension (NICE guidelines)