Visual acuity test

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Eye

Normal, nearsighted, and farsighted vision

Visual acuity test

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.

Eye test - acuity; Vision test - acuity

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.

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

There is no discomfort.

The visual acuity test is a routine part of an eye examination or general physical examination, particularly if there is a change in vision or a problem with vision. In children, the test is performed to screen for any visual problems. Vision problems in young children can often be corrected or improved. Undetected or untreated problems may result in permanent damage to vision.

Review Date: 02/22/2007
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.