What is the priority assessment for a patient with sudden vision changes?

In cases of sudden vision changes, the priority assessment should focus on determining the underlying cause of those changes. A detailed eye examination is crucial because it allows healthcare providers to assess the health of the eyes and identify any immediate concerns, such as retinal detachment, hemorrhage, or other ocular conditions that may require urgent intervention.

While visual acuity assessment is important to quantify the changes in vision, it does not provide sufficient information on the potential structural or pathological issues affecting the eyes. Ocular pressure tests can assess for conditions like glaucoma, but they may not be the first step in the context of sudden changes in vision. Similarly, a neurological evaluation is essential if there is a suspicion of neurological causes for vision changes, such as a stroke, but the immediate priority is often to first assess the eye itself to rule out any acute ocular emergencies. Therefore, conducting a detailed eye examination allows for a comprehensive assessment and appropriate prioritization of further treatment or interventions.