Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

During the measurement of NPA, what is the appropriate condition for testing?

1. Bright sunlight conditions

2. Normal room illumination

3. Dim lighting for sensitivity

4. Direct sunlight for clarity

The correct answer is: Normal room illumination

In the measurement of near point of accommodation (NPA), normal room illumination is the appropriate condition for testing. This lighting condition helps ensure that the patient can clearly see the target while maintaining comfort and reducing glare. Adequate lighting is necessary for accurate assessment of the eye's ability to focus on close objects, which can be adversely affected by either excessive brightness or insufficient light. Other lighting conditions, like bright sunlight or direct sunlight, could introduce glare and visual discomfort, making it difficult for the patient to focus on the test target accurately. Dim lighting might compromise the ability to see the target well enough for reliable measurement, making normal room illumination the ideal choice to support effective and accurate testing for NPA.