Snellen Eye Chart

To Test Visual Acuity

Image of eye chart
  • Allow the patient to use their glasses or contact lens if available. You are interested in the patient's best corrected vision.
  • Position the patient 20 feet in front of the Snellen eye chart (or hold a Rosenbaum pocket card at a 14 inch "reading" distance).
  • Have the patient cover one eye at a time with a card.
  • Ask the patient to read progressively smaller letters until they can go no further.
  • Record the smallest line the patient read successfully (20/20, 20/30, etc.)
  • Repeat with the other eye.

MCC Paramedics are held to a higher standard.