What do Snellen charts assess?

Snellen charts are specifically designed to assess visual acuity, which refers to the clarity or sharpness of vision. This is an important component of an eye examination, often used to determine how well an individual can see at various distances. The chart typically features rows of letters or symbols that decrease in size, allowing the practitioner to gauge the smallest letters a patient can read from a specified distance, generally 20 feet.

By identifying visual acuity, medical professionals can detect refractive errors, monitor eye health, and make decisions regarding necessary interventions or treatments. In contrast, options such as blood pressure levels, cervical cell scraping, and heart activity relate to different areas of medical assessment, like cardiovascular health and gynecological examinations, rather than vision capabilities. This distinction highlights the significance of the Snellen chart in ocular assessments specifically.