Ch 31 Optometry study guide flashcards

What is NOT a medical doctor but can perform eye examinations and diagnose vision problems?

Optometrist

• not an MD but can perform eye examinations, diagnose vision problems, and eye diseases, and treat visual defects through corrective lenses and eye exercises

In the process of vision, what structure adjusts the curvature of the lens to refract light rays?

ciliary muscles

Which refractive error occurs when light rays entering the eye are focused irregularly due to an irregular shape of the cornea or lens?

astigmatism

• occurs when light rays entering the eye are focused irregularly

• occurs because the cornea or the lens is not smooth sphere, but has an irregular shape

What condition is characterized by constant, involuntary movement of one or both eyes, often accompanied by blurred vision?

nystagmus

• constant, involuntary movement of one or both eyes

• accompanied by blurred vision

• caused by an abnormal function in part of the brain that controls eye movements

What diagnostic tool is used to measure how far the eye protrudes beyond the edge of the socket?

exophthalmometer

What does PERRLA stand for in an eye examination?