title: Electrophysiology testing and the ophthalmic registered nurse.
abstract: Ophthalmologists employ electrophysiologic testing to diagnose and manage a variety of ocular conditions. The most common reason these tests are performed is to diagnose inherited vitreoretinal diseases. Patients of all ages may require electrophysiologic testing. The purpose of this article is to provide the ophthalmic registered nurse with a working knowledge of the three most commonly used electrophysiologic tests. We will provide background and practical information on how we perform electroretinography (ERG), electroculography (EOG), and dark adaptometry. Knowledge of the basics of this specialized testing will allow the ophthalmic nurse to provide more information for the patient. This knowledge will hopefully reduce patient anxiety and with better cooperation produce more accurate test results.
authors.forename: B A
authors.initials: BA
authors.lastname: Follmer
authors.forename: S C
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: A E
authors.initials: AE
authors.lastname: Kimura
mesh_terms: D000221:Adaptation, Ocular; D004568:Electrodiagnosis / Q000451:nursing*; D004585:Electrooculography / Q000451:nursing*; D004596:Electroretinography / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D009885:Ophthalmology; D013041:Specialties, Nursing