Step by step

What happens during an eye examination?

Step 1:	The doctor or assistant will take a verbal history of current concerns, eye problems, your state of health and any current medications you are taking.
Step 2:	Your visual acuity is measured by having you read the eye chart with or without corrective lenses.
Step 3:	Your refraction is tested using lens strengths to find out which gives you the best possible vision.
Step 4:	A pressure test is performed either with an air-puff machine or with instruments that come right up to the eye’s surface.
Step 5:	The health of the front part of the eye is evaluated (lids, lashes, cornea, iris, sclera, conjunctiva and lens) for any problems.
Step 6:	Drops may be used to dilate your pupils, so the doctor can get a better view of the retina and vitreous. Your eyes will be very light sensitive for several hours. Don’t forget to bring a pair of sunglasses to wear on the way home. Or, we’ll supply a disposable pair to you or direct you to the optical store to purchase a pair.

Things to remember

• Your focus will be quite blurry until the drops wear off. Dilating drops relax the muscle in your eye that helps you focus, resulting in blurred vision for two hours to 10 hours. Some people are not comfortable driving while their eyes are dilated. If your eyes have never been dilated, you may want to consider having someone drive for you after your exam.
• If needed, we will give you a prescription for eyeglasses and any needed medications.
• If you need drops or medications, you can visit the Pharmacy @ Park Nicollet to have your prescription filled.
• If you want contact lenses, or need your annual contact lens fitting, we will take further measurements at a separate appointment with a contact lens technician, and give you a separate contact lens prescription.
• We will tell you how often to return for rechecks.
• Your doctor will answer any questions and give you printed materials about eye health.