For an explanation of what pretests do perform and which Crystal Tabs to fill out for each type of patient - refer to the "What Pretesting Should be Done for Each Patient " document located under the Forms Tab.
Explain to the patient that you will be doing a few tests before they see the doctor.
Thoroughly clean all pretest equipment with a new alcohol wipe while the patient is in the room. Dispose of old wipes in the trash can.
As you conduct tests in the following order, be sure to explain to patient what you are doing and why:
Ask the questions on first two tabs of medical record in Crystal. Use Shift F8 button for new patient defaults, and Previous button for prior patients.
Complete near vision test - "We are going to begin by testing your near or reading vision". Record results in Crystal, Pretest Tab.
Patient wears whatever they normally wear for reading (reading glasses/no glasses, etc.). Patient holds card 16 to 18 inches away. Test right eye and left eye. Record on sheet whether it is "aided" or "unaided.
Complete color vision test *for new patients only.* "This tests your color perception". Record results in Crystal, Pretest Tab.
Depth Perception test (for patients under 18) using stereo book and glasses. "This tests your depth perception, or your eyes ability to work together". Record results in Crystal, Pretest Tab.
Auto-refractor. "The first machine will give the doctor a starting point for your eyeglass prescription". Capture results in Crystal on Pretest Tab once receipt has printed, by selecting the KR-8900 button. Add receipt to clipboard for doctor.
Non-contact tonometer (Puff test). "This machine tests the fluid pressure of your eye, it is one of the tests we use to check for glaucoma". Record results in Crystal, Pretest Tab.
Retinal Photography.
Visual Fields (Only perform this test - as "screening visual field" - if the puff test results are 22 or higher in either eye.) "This will test your peripheral or side vision". Choose the type of field performed in the "FDT visual field" section of Pretest Tab. Write patient name on printed receipt, add to clipboard for doctor, be sure to scan into Crystal after exam.
Once the tests are completed, bring the patient to the exam room. Direct patient to sit in exam chair ("big black chair at back of room") and tell them there are hooks on wall to hang their coats. Explain to the doctor why they are coming in for the exam and any problems the patient is having - specific lifestyle needs.
BEST PRACTICES:
Smile and make eye contact when talking with patient.
Clean machines in front of patient.
Be personable and show genuine interest, especially when asking lifestyle questions (this is your opportunity to create that unique and excellent experience).
Think out Loud while performing tests.
Be directive when moving patient into pretest and exam rooms.