Vision Screening RECS Learning Module

Objectives

1. Illustrate appropriate physical exam techniques necessary for vision screening in the newborn 
2. Know the visual abilities of normal newborn infants 
3. Know which conditions may be detected by periodic opthalmoscopic examinations (eg: cataracts, retrolental fibroplasias, retinoblastoma) 
4. Know how to identify ocular tropias and phorias using the cover test 
5. Know the importance of differentiating congenital from acquired ptosis

Articles/Resources

Pediatric Vision Screening - (2013)

Vision Screening for Infants and Children - (2013)

Instrument-Based Pediatric Vision Screening Policy Statement- (2012)

Self-quiz:

1. What causes amblyopia and what is the estimated prevalence?
2. What vision screening guidelines does the AAP recommend from the newborn period to age 3 years?  How about for ages 3-5 years?
3. What are the visual abilities of newborn infants?
4. Describe how the cover test is conducted.
5. What is the difference between ocular tropia and ocular phoria?
6. Describe the clinical difference between congenital and acquired ptosis?
7. At what age range is the vision system fully developed, and therefore decreased vision can not be improved?
8. Intermittent strabismus can be normal in a neonate.  After what age should this be considered pathologic?
9. When testing a child’s subjective vision in the outpatient pediatric setting, when should a child be referred for further evaluation? At what age is it essential to have a formal visual acuity test?

Helpful links:

Ophthalmology: tropias versus phorias

Ophthalmology Lecture: Amblyopia

Reviewed 10/2017