How do we assess the visual fields of a patient?

Assessing the visual fields of a patient involves evaluating the extent to which a person can see in their peripheral vision. This is crucial in detecting any abnormalities that may indicate underlying health issues.

Covering one eye and noting finger visibility from the periphery is a classic method used in clinical practice to assess visual fields. By covering one eye, the examiner can accurately test the visual fields of the uncovered eye without interference. Asking the patient to focus on a central point while the examiner moves their fingers into the patient's peripheral vision allows for a systematic evaluation of each quadrant of the visual field. This technique helps identify any blind spots or field defects, such as hemianopia, which could signal neurological issues.

The other options, while related to vision, do not specifically assess visual fields in the same way. For example, a Snellen chart measures visual acuity, which denotes clarity or sharpness of vision rather than peripheral vision. Reading a newspaper examines a person's ability to process text rather than their peripheral visual field. Evaluating pupillary response assesses the functionality of the pupils and their reaction to light but does not provide information about the full scope of a patient’s visual fields.