Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

Which of the following is considered a red flag in ophthalmic examinations?

1. Age-related presbyopia

2. Unilateral vision loss

3. Minor irritation

4. Transitory floaters

The correct answer is: Unilateral vision loss

Unilateral vision loss is considered a red flag in ophthalmic examinations because it may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires prompt evaluation and intervention. Conditions that can lead to unilateral vision loss include retinal detachment, acute glaucoma, or vascular occlusions, such as central retinal artery occlusion or branch retinal artery occlusion. These issues can have significant implications for a patient’s health and could potentially lead to permanent vision loss if not addressed quickly. In contrast, age-related presbyopia is a common and expected change in vision as individuals age, resulting from the natural hardening of the lens and is not alarming on its own. Minor irritation typically suggests benign causes such as allergies or mild infections that are not urgent. Transitory floaters may also occur due to benign reasons, such as changes in the vitreous humor, although they can occasionally indicate a more serious issue if accompanied by flashes of light or vision changes. However, the key point is that unilateral vision loss should always prompt immediate investigation to rule out or confirm any critical ocular or systemic issues.