Recently we ran distance learning CET article C59048 Low Vision Refresher offering an overview of the approach to assessing and then prescribing magnification in its various forms for the most likely patients to present with visual impairment either in a dedicated low vision practice or for a routine eye examination in community practice.
Some of the key points discussed included;
- The majority of low vision patients are elderly and the most likely visual impairment is central vision loss
- The commonest reported visual disability is problems with reading
- A significant percentage of patients attending for a low vision assessment may be suffering from clinical depression which needs to be addressed if a successful management plan is to be introduced and followed
- A full history and symptoms needs to gauge patient motivation to use their existing sight and to build a picture, not only of their visual needs and demands, but also of their social status, such as whether they live alone or have any existing support network
- Certification to be registered as sight or severe sight impaired offers some financial help, though much of the support that a low vision practitioner and allied professionals may offer should be available irrespective of registration
- A logarithmic acuity chart has many advantages over a traditional Snellen chart when dealing with reduced acuity
- Refraction is best done in steps appropriate to the vision loss, and pinhole/slit have advantages in gauging any uncorrected error
- Magnification can be predicted from the near acuity seen with a +4.00DS addition in a trial frame (unit magnification) or by using any existing addition habitually worn
- N8 is suggested as a useful representation of standard contrast new and text print
- An acuity reserve is useful for prescribing magnification when it is to be used for any prolonged viewing rather than simply spot checking
- Magnification may be prescribed in the form of spectacle magnifiers, hand and stand magnifiers and telescopes – each have pros and cons and it is important to understand the optics behind each in order to best explain their use and to solve any concerns with their use
C59048 Low Vision Refresher is available as source material for this exercise and it is important to read it through. Access the source material via the link below and after reading return to this page and then proceed to multiple choice questions. Successfully completing the questions will allow you to undertake the interactive exercise. The exercise involves deciding upon a suitable aid for a patient and predicting any problems with the outcome.
Please note that the source material is a separate CET article NOT part of this one. You must return to this page to continue with this module.
Source material
Once you have read through the source material, please attempt the six multiple choice questions as the next step of this module. You must get all six correct to proceed to the interactive exercise.