List of Topics Print This Page

 Tests

Visual acuity test

Visual acuity test

Eye
Eye
Visual acuity test
Visual acuity test
Normal, near, and farsightedness
Normal, near, and farsightedness

Definition:

The visual acuity test is used to determine the smallest letters a person can read on a standardized chart or card held 14 - 20 feet away.

Alternative Names:
Eye test - acuity; Vision test - acuity
How the test is performed:

This test may be done in a health care provider's office, a school, a work place, or elsewhere. Stand behind a line 20 feet from the eye chart. Remove glasses or contacts. Keep both eyes open and gently cover one eye with the palm of your hand, a piece of paper, or a paper cup while you read out loud the smallest line of letters that you can read on the chart.

If you are not sure of the letter, you may guess. This test is done on each eye, one at a time. If necessary, it is then repeated while you wear your glasses or contacts. You may also be asked to read letters or numbers from a card held 14 inches from your face. This will test your near vision.

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

How the test will feel:

There is no discomfort.


Review Date: 2/22/2007
Reviewed By: Manju Subramanian, MD, Assistant Professor in Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Disease and Surgery, Boston University Eye Associates, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

  View History
 Visual acuity test

   
   

 

About UPHS   Contact Us   Site Map   Privacy Statement   Legal Disclaimer   Terms of Use

The University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA 1-800-789-PENN © 2008, The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania