Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What are three possible causes of poor patient reliability on a visual field test?

1. Poor comprehension, anxiety, discomfort

2. High contrast sensitivity, fatigue, relaxation

3. Strong visual acuity, excitement, focus

4. Good health, well-rested, calm demeanor

The correct answer is: Poor comprehension, anxiety, discomfort

The selection of poor comprehension, anxiety, and discomfort as potential causes of poor patient reliability on a visual field test is accurate because each of these factors can significantly impact a patient’s ability to perform reliably during the test. Poor comprehension can arise when a patient does not fully understand the instructions or the purpose of the visual field test, leading to inconsistent or inaccurate responses. If a patient is unsure of what to do or misinterprets the testing procedure, it can affect their performance. Anxiety is another critical factor that can impair focus and attention. When a patient feels anxious, it can affect their overall concentration and make it difficult to respond accurately to stimuli presented during the test. High levels of anxiety can lead to an inability to stay calm and focused throughout the test, resulting in unreliable data. Discomfort during the testing process can also hinder a patient’s performance. If a patient experiences physical discomfort, whether due to the testing equipment or the testing environment, they may become distracted or unable to concentrate on the task at hand. This distraction can lead to inconsistent responses and potential inaccuracies in the test results. Understanding these factors is essential in ensuring proper patient preparation and creating a conducive testing environment to enhance the reliability of visual field tests.