COT Patient Care and Communication

Question 1

Before performing any ophthalmic test, the technician should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Verify patient identity and review the chief complaint

Answer

Confirming patient identity and understanding the chief complaint ensures testing is appropriate and prevents errors.

Question 2

When documenting a patient's visual acuity as 20/40, what does this mean?

Accepted Answer

The patient sees at 20 feet what a normal eye sees at 40 feet

Answer

Snellen notation means the patient must be 20 feet away to see what a person with normal vision sees at 40 feet.

Question 3

Which communication technique is most appropriate when explaining a new diagnosis to an anxious patient?

Accepted Answer

Use plain language, maintain eye contact, and allow questions

Answer

Plain language, eye contact, and open dialogue promote patient understanding and build trust in anxious patients.

Question 4

HIPAA regulations require that patient health information be shared with:

Accepted Answer

Only those with a clinical need to know

Answer

HIPAA's minimum necessary standard limits PHI sharing to staff with a legitimate clinical or operational need.

Question 5

What is the correct technique for documenting a medication allergy in a patient record?

Accepted Answer

Document allergy, reaction type, and severity prominently in the chart

Answer

All allergies should be documented with the specific reaction and severity to prevent accidental exposure during treatment.

COT - Certified Ophthalmic Technician Practice Test