What is the first step in the described sequence for assessing a client's visual field?

What is the first step in the described sequence for assessing a client's visual field?

• A. Direct client to stand 60 cm away from eye level
• B. Ask client to close his or her right eye gently
• C. Close opposite eye to superimpose field of vision
• D. Move finger equidistant between nurse and client

Answer: (A)

The first step is to set up proper positioning by placing the client about 60 cm away at eye level. Establishing this consistent distance ensures the visual field boundaries are tested under standardized conditions, so the examiner can accurately detect when a moving stimulus enters the patient’s peripheral vision. Once this setup is done, you then proceed to isolate the tested eye (for example, by having the patient cover the opposite eye) and move the stimulus from the periphery toward the center to map the field. Without the correct distance and alignment, the results can be unreliable, which is why starting with this setup is essential.

The first step is to set up proper positioning by placing the client about 60 cm away at eye level. Establishing this consistent distance ensures the visual field boundaries are tested under standardized conditions, so the examiner can accurately detect when a moving stimulus enters the patient’s peripheral vision. Once this setup is done, you then proceed to isolate the tested eye (for example, by having the patient cover the opposite eye) and move the stimulus from the periphery toward the center to map the field. Without the correct distance and alignment, the results can be unreliable, which is why starting with this setup is essential.