Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

In retinoscopy, which reflex indicates that light is focusing behind the retina?

1. "Against" reflex

2. "With" reflex

3. Neutral reflex

4. Contrary reflex

The correct answer is: "Against" reflex

In retinoscopy, the reflex that indicates light is focusing behind the retina is known as the "against" reflex. This reflex occurs when the examiner moves the retinoscope light beam in one direction and observes the movement of the reflected light. If the observed light movement is in the opposite direction to the motion of the light beam, it suggests that the patient is hyperopic (farsighted), meaning that the light rays are converging behind the retina. This is a critical aspect of determining the correct prescription needed for the patient. The other types of reflexes provide different information regarding the focusing status of the eye. The "with" reflex would indicate that the light is focusing in front of the retina, and the neutral reflex represents a balanced focus where the light is correctly focused on the retina. The term "contrary reflex" is not typically used in retinoscopy, making it an improper choice. Therefore, the "against" reflex is the correct indication of light focusing behind the retina.