Section V: The Examination

The Examination

Doctor sets the patient's distance correction in the phoropter


Doctor places computer-image tester on reading rod at normal working distance


As patient reads words on tester, doctor performs low-neutral retinoscopy

More on the Examination

Doctor aims light streak through the special opening in the tester


Streak is moved horizontally across pupil


Reflected light reveals status of accommodation


Plus power is added in phoropter until motion is neutralized

The objective exam

Up to this point, no patient response is required


Doctor then asks patient for their subjective response


Doctor adjusts phoropter by +/- 0.25D steps to achieve most comfortable image


Result is exact add power needed for computer use

Computer Add power

Patients often require more plus power than a standard test would reveal


This is true even with monitors at greater working distances


This is an appropriate response to the stimulus of a computer screen

Objective testing

There is no need to take patient out of exam room


Test also reveals when patients might require different add power for each eye

Finally

Doctor shows the patient the difference between the computer Rx and normal Rx

Doctor then demonstrates how eyes feel different with the correct computer prescription

To continue, click on Section Six, Lesson One in the left column