NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)Clinical Patient CareMedium
A medical assistant is preparing to perform a Snellen eye chart test on a patient. At what standard distance should the patient stand or sit from the chart?
- A15 feet
- B25 feet
- C20 feet
- D10 feet
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 20 feet
The standard distance for performing a Snellen eye chart test is 20 feet (or 6 meters). This distance allows for an accurate assessment of visual acuity, as the letters on the chart are designed to be read from this specific distance.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 15 feet is not the standard distance for a Snellen test.
- B. 25 feet is too far for a standard Snellen test, potentially leading to an underestimation of visual acuity.
- D. 10 feet is too close for a standard Snellen test, potentially leading to an overestimation of visual acuity.
Snellen Chart Distance
The Snellen eye chart is used to measure visual acuity, with the patient standing or sitting at a standard distance of 20 feet (6 meters) from the chart for accurate assessment.
- Measures visual acuity.
- Standard distance is 20 feet (6 meters).
- Crucial for accurate results.
Memory trick: Snellen's 20/20, Stand Back 20.