[§459-7.45] Restrictions on the use of topical steroidal agents and topical anti-viral agents.
(a) A therapeutically certified optometrist may prescribe topical steroidal agents with the following restrictions:(1) An ophthalmologist shall be consulted:
(A) If the patient's condition worsens or does not improve seventy-two hours after initiating treatment with a topical steroid; or
(B) If the inflammation is still present two weeks after diagnosis; and
(C) When treating a corneal ulcer or peripheral inflammatory keratitis with a topical steroid; provided that children under the age of fifteen may be treated with a topical steroid only after consultation with an ophthalmologist;
(2) The patient shall be referred to an ophthalmologist if a topical steroid is still indicated three weeks after diagnosis; and
(3) The only type of anterior uveitis to be treated under this section is traumatic iritis.
(b) A therapeutically certified optometrist may prescribe topical anti-viral agents for corneal epithelial lesions; provided that if the patient's condition does not improve seventy-two hours after initiating treatment with a topical anti-viral agent, the patient shall be immediately referred to an ophthalmologist. [L 2002, c 164, §2]