Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

The red reflex in infants is important for screening for which condition?

1. Cataracts

2. Strabismus

3. Blindness

4. The blinking response

The correct answer is: Cataracts

The red reflex is a crucial clinical observation in infants that involves shining a light in the child's eyes to assess the reflection from the retina. When the red reflex is present, it indicates that the pathway through the eye is clear, notably the cornea, lens, and vitreous humor. Cataracts, which can obstruct the passage of light through the lens, can suppress the red reflex, making it appear absent or dull. This absence or abnormal reflection is an essential indicator of cataracts in infants. Early detection through screening can enable timely intervention, reducing the risk of long-term visual impairment. Although conditions such as strabismus or blindness may also concern eye health in infants, these do not specifically relate to the red reflex. Strabismus is primarily associated with eye alignment issues, and blindness can stem from various causes that do not necessarily impede the appearance of the red reflex. The blinking response relates more to neurological function rather than the red reflex. Thus, the emphasis on cataracts underscores the importance of the red reflex in early pediatric eye examinations.