5
How to Conduct an
Ophthalmologic Examination
Position the ophthalmoscope
about 6 inches (15cm) in front
and 25° to the right side of
the patient. (Step 5)
In order to conduct a
successful examination
of the fundus, the
examining room should
be either semi-darkened
or completely darkened.
It is preferable to dilate
the pupil when there is
no pathologic contrain-
dication, but much
information can be
obtained through the
undilated pupil.
The following steps will help the physician obtain satisfactory
results:
1. For examination of the right eye, sit or stand at the
patient’s right side.
2. Select “0” on the illuminated lens dial of the
ophthalmoscope and start with small aperture.
3. Take the ophthalmoscope and start in the right hand and
hold it vertically in front of your own right eye with the light
beam directed toward the patient and place your right
index finger on the edge of the lens dial so that you will be
able to change lenses easily if necessary.
4. Dim room lights. Instruct the patient to look straight ahead
at a distant object.
5. Position the ophthalmoscope about 6 inches (15cm) in
front and slightly to the right (25°) of the patient and direct
the light beam into the pupil. A red “reflex” should appear
as you look through the pupil.
• Ophth Broch ForeignWorking.2 4/26/99 1:02 PM Page 5
