Category: Skill Centre
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Navigating the Case of Trial Lenses: A Beginner’s Guide
Introduction to Trial Lenses Trial lenses are essential tools for any optometrist or optometry student performing a refraction. They let you explore how different lens powers affect a patient’s vision. Using a trial frame, you place these lenses in front of the eyes to test and adjust prescriptions on the spot. The trial frame adjusts…
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Fixation Disparity: Fix the Fixation, End the Despair
Please note, this article of fixation disparity is long and as such use of the table of contents below, along with the “back to top” buttons is advised. Introduction Fixation disparity is a subtle ocular misalignment that occurs when both eyes attempt to fuse a single image1,2,3,4,5,6,7. Even when a person sees one image, the…
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Jackson Cross Cylinder: Mastering Astigmatic Correction
Introduction Understanding the Jackson Cross Cylinder test is crucial for any budding optometrist. This technique is a cornerstone in refining astigmatic corrections, a common necessity in many eye exams. The Jackson Cross Cylinder test not only identifies the presence of astigmatism but also fine-tunes the correction to ensure optimal visual acuity. Whether you’re new to…
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Testing Children’s Eyes: 10 Tips for Success
Testing children’s eyes was one of the most challenging experiences I faced after graduating from university and starting my pre-registration year. As a student, I hadn’t gained much exposure to this area, nor during my optical jobs over the summer breaks. Just two days into my pre-reg, I was scheduled to see the practice receptionist’s…
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Cover Test Techniques: The Ultimate Guide for Students
The cover test is a crucial tool used in eye examinations to objectively assess eye alignment and detect misalignments. It assesses for the presence of motor fusion, required for aligning the eyes. Misalignments, such as tropias and phorias, can be detected and managed through careful assessment. Equipment needed includes an occluder and fixation targets. The…
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Exploring the Risk Factors of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a multifaceted disease that has many intricate considerations. Whether or not one is susceptible to glaucoma can depend on a number of risk factors. This article looks to address these risk factors.
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Decoding the Pupil: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Assessing Pupillary Reflexes
The pupil is a small black circle in the eye that adjusts to control light. Pupillary reflexes are important for eye exams and involve four key tests: direct, consensual, near, and RAPD reflexes. Understanding the innervation and neurophysiology of pupil response is crucial for optometry students. An abnormal pupillary reflex can indicate visual and nervous…
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The Art of Assessing the Optic Nerve
This comprehensive guide emphasizes the importance of optometrists and ophthalmologists assessing the optic nerve head in addition to relying on modern technologies. It encourages a thorough evaluation, including factors like the best viewing method, disc edges, size, color, rim assessment, and the cup-to-disc ratio. The guide also addresses challenges in assessing the cup-to-disc ratio and…
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Galilean Telescopes: A Glimpse into Optics, Optometry, and Low Vision Aids
Galilean telescopes, named after Galileo Galilei, are simple yet powerful optical instruments. They consist of a converging lens and a diverging lens, making them ideal for stargazing and optometry. Their use in low vision aids has proven beneficial, despite limitations. The magnification is calculated by dividing the focal lengths of the lenses.
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Skill Centre – Transposition into Alternative Sph / Cyl Forms
Optical prescriptions require transposing from sphere-cylinder to alternative forms. The choice between plus and minus cylinder forms affects lens creation and surgery planning. Situations like inter-professional communication and prescription verification may require transposition. To transpose, calculate new sphere value, change cylinder sign, and adjust axis. Mastering this skill is crucial for eye care professionals and…