A client reports dizziness on her yearly physical exam.
Which of the following tests would be the most appropriate to assess the client's equilibrium?

Choice A rationale

The Cover/Uncover test is used to assess the presence of strabismus or eye muscle weakness. During this test, one eye is covered while the other eye is observed for movement. The uncovered eye is then observed when the cover is removed. If there is a misalignment or weakness, the uncovered eye will move to re-establish focus, indicating a problem with eye muscle control.

Choice B rationale

Testing peripheral vision involves assessing the range of vision around the central focus point and is not specifically used to detect eye muscle weakness. It evaluates the function of the retina and optic nerve rather than the eye muscles. This test helps identify issues such as glaucoma or retinal detachment.

Choice C rationale

The Snellen chart test measures visual acuity, specifically how well a person can see at various distances. It is not designed to assess eye muscle strength or alignment. The test involves reading letters of different sizes from a chart placed at a standard distance.

Choice D rationale

The Weber test is an auditory test used to assess hearing loss by placing a vibrating tuning fork on the forehead or middle of the head. It helps determine whether hearing loss is conductive or sensorineural in nature. This test does not provide information about eye muscle function or alignment.

Choice A rationale

Loss of peripheral vision is more commonly associated with glaucoma, where increased intraocular pressure damages the optic nerve. This condition leads to gradual loss of peripheral vision, often described as "tunnel vision.”. Cataracts typically do not cause this symptom.

Choice B rationale

Cataracts involve the clouding of the eye's natural lens, leading to blurred vision and decreased ability to perceive colors. The clouding scatters light, reducing the clarity of color perception and overall vision. This symptom is consistent with cataract formation.

Choice C rationale

Seeing bright flashes of light and floaters is more commonly associated with retinal detachment or posterior vitreous detachment. These conditions involve changes in the retina or vitreous humor, leading to such visual disturbances. Cataracts do not typically cause these symptoms.

Choice D rationale

Loss of central vision is more commonly associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), where the central part of the retina (macula) deteriorates. This condition affects central vision, making activities like reading and recognizing faces difficult. Cataracts primarily cause generalized blurred vision, not central vision loss.