Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

Which color vision test uses plates to assess perception?

1. Pseudoisochromatic plates

2. Red-green tests

3. Arrangement tests

4. Monochromatic tests

The correct answer is: Pseudoisochromatic plates

The use of pseudoisochromatic plates as a color vision test is based on the principle of detecting color perception differences between individuals. These plates contain a series of colored dots that form numbers or shapes, which can only be identified by individuals with normal color vision. Those with color vision deficits, particularly red-green deficiencies, often see different patterns or cannot distinguish the numbers at all. Pseudoisochromatic plates were specifically designed to assess color vision through a visual test that relies on the ability to perceive color contrasts. They are commonly used because they are straightforward to administer, do not require complex equipment, and provide a clear, objective way to evaluate color discrimination. While other methods like red-green tests assess color blindness, arrangement tests involve ordering colors and are not specifically plate-based assessments. Monochromatic tests focus on a single color and do not use plates in the same manner. Therefore, pseudoisochromatic plates stand out as the correct choice for a color vision test using plates to assess perception.