Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

Which type of examination would NOT typically be performed during a routine eye exam?

1. Refraction

2. Visual field test

3. Scleral depression

4. Tonometry

The correct answer is: Scleral depression

During a routine eye exam, scleral depression is not a common procedure. This technique is typically reserved for more specialized examinations, particularly in evaluating certain conditions of the retina or for assessing peripheral retinal detachments. Scleral depression involves manipulating the eye to observe the retina more thoroughly, which is usually not part of a standard eye check-up. In contrast, refraction, visual field tests, and tonometry are standard components of a comprehensive eye exam. Refraction assesses the need for corrective lenses, visual field tests evaluate peripheral vision and detect potential issues with the optic nerve or visual pathways, and tonometry measures intraocular pressure to screen for glaucoma. Each of these procedures serves a fundamental role in assessing ocular health during routine visits.