Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) Practice Test

The primary purpose of the Schirmer test in a patient with dry eyes is to assess tear production. This test is specifically designed to measure how much tear film is produced by the lacrimal glands over a defined period, typically 5 minutes. During the Schirmer test, a small strip of filter paper is placed in the lower conjunctival sac, and the amount of moisture that is absorbed by the strip indicates the volume of tears produced. This information is critical for diagnosing dry eye conditions, as insufficient tear production can lead to discomfort, visual disturbances, and potential damage to the ocular surface. By determining the level of tear production, healthcare providers can evaluate the severity of dry eye syndrome and guide appropriate management or treatment options. Although other options relate to eye health, they do not pertain to the specific purpose of the Schirmer test; instead, they address different assessments or functions within the ophthalmic field. For instance, measuring corneal thickness is accomplished through methods such as pachymetry, evaluating visual acuity involves eye charts, and testing for color blindness is done through color vision tests. All these assessments serve distinct purposes that are separate from tear production evaluation.