Failed vision screen

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Screen resultChoose one

Photoscreener findingsChoose any

Eye examChoose one

Symptoms at homeChoose one

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Follow-upChoose one

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Note when inserted as is

Failed vision screen
• Instrument-based vision screen (photoscreener) flagged risk factors for amblyopia
• Red reflexes symmetric and no strabismus on cover testing
• No vision concerns noticed at home
• Referred to pediatric ophthalmology or an optometrist experienced with children for a dilated eye exam given the abnormal screen
• Follow up after the eye exam

Vision screening finds children who may need glasses or have a lazy eye (amblyopia), which often causes no symptoms and is most treatable when found early. The eye doctor will do a full exam with dilating drops and decide whether glasses or other treatment are needed, so it is important to keep this appointment even if the child seems to see well. Caregiver expressed understanding and agreement with plan. Answered all questions.

What the sources cover

Laterality (right, left, both eyes)
Instrument-based screen flagged
Acuity below the critical line for age; 2-line difference between eyes
Incomplete or unreliable screen
Photoscreener flags: astigmatism, anisometropia, hyperopia, myopia, misalignment, pupil size
Red reflex and cover test normal; abnormal red reflex or strabismus warrants expedited referral
Symptoms at home: none, squinting, trouble seeing board
Family history of amblyopia, strabismus, childhood glasses; already wears glasses
Referral to pediatric ophthalmology or eye care professional experienced with children
Already followed by an eye doctor

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Importance of completing evaluation during visual development
Follow-up after the eye exam

Used to decide, kept out of the note

Critical-line numbers (20/50, 20/40, 20/30)

Sources

Cribsiders #38 Ophthalmology in Pediatrics (Nov 10, 2021)
Cribsiders #153 Say Cheese! Eye Spy Retinoblastoma (Sept 24, 2025)
American Academy of Ophthalmology Cornea/External Disease Committee. Conjunctivitis Preferred Practice Pattern 2023. Ophthalmology 2024
HC Umbilical Hernia (Chang, AAP Section on Surgery)
AAP Policy Statement, Visual System Assessment in Infants, Children, and Young Adults by Pediatricians. Donahue SP, Baker CN; COPAM, Section on Ophthalmology, AAPOS,…
AAP Clinical Report, Procedures for the Evaluation of the Visual System by Pediatricians. Donahue SP, Baker CN. Pediatrics 2016;137(1):e20153597. Reaffirmed February…
AAP Clinical Report, Hearing Assessment in Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Recommendations Beyond Neonatal Screening. Bower C, Reilly BK, Richerson J, Hecht JL;…
Wang KS; COFN; Section on Surgery. Assessment and Management of Inguinal Hernia in Infants. Pediatrics 2012;130(4):768. Reaffirmed May 2021. (re-read Oct 22 2026,…