REPETITIVE stress syndrome, wrist pain, backaches, and neck problems are some of the physical difficulties that eyecare professionals (ECPs) can encounter during the refracting process. They are caused by stooping over the refracting instrument all day to manipulate it. Another disadvantage of the traditional dial-spinning refractor is the amount of time and skill needed to arrive at an accurate Rx. Topcon Medical Systems, Inc.'s new automated CV-5000 Vision Tester solves all these problems and more.
No Manual Adjustment
One of the qualities that sets this refractor apart from the rest is there are no manual adjustment knobs on the control head unit. All instrument inputs are made on a handy 10.4-in. touch screen that the operator conveniently holds in her lap or sets on a counter. With a sphere range from -29.00D to +26.75D and cylinders up to +/-8.75D, almost every patient can be examined with the CV-5000.
From 3000 to 5000
The CV-5000 is an upgraded version of the company's CV-3000, which was discontinued in December 2006. Its optical head is 50% smaller and has been redesigned. The KB-50 controller allows ECPs to demonstrate to their patients the benefits of their new lenses using a high-resolution color LCD screen.
An Array of Eye Charts
Eye charts are used to check vision with the CV-5000. Five chart pages are available, accommodating 21 charts so there are always plenty of choices. The operator can introduce three lines at a time, isolate three characters vertically or horizontally, or show separate single characters.
Automation
Pre-test data can be transferred directly to the refractor, eliminating copy errors that can occur when writing down lensometry or autorefractor readings. The operator may choose to start with either the lensometry or the autorefraction data automatically set in the CV-5000. And the unit's high-speed lens selection is a real timesaver once the data is entered. Onscreen tutorials are also included to help train new employees or less experienced refractionists.
Easy Comparison
Another useful feature is the ability to easily show the patient the difference between his old and new Rx. With just a push of a button, the present Rx enters the unit. Push another button and the new Rx automatically switches into the refractor-no more moving the refractor away from the patient and handing him his glasses to do a comparison.
Program Mode
The entire refracting sequence can be programmed into the unit and multiple programs can be saved. This means that ECPs can each have an individual program to suit their refracting style. The program function is also ideal if a doctor is going to train an assistant to participate in the refracting process. By programming the sequence, the doctor can be assured that the assistant is following the preferred process by simply utilizing the program mode.
EMR Compatible
As electronic medical records (EMRs) become the gold standard in patient care, it is vital to have equipment that easily connects to this system. The CV-5000 can transfer data to most EMR programs to reduce copying error and tedious paper shuffling.
If you think that refracting has become a pain in the neck,and back, and wrist, test drive Topcon's new CV-5000 vision tester.
Kim Pickett is a certified ophthalmic medical technologist and ophthalmic writer in Minneapolis, MN.
WHERE TO FIND IT
Topcon Medical Systems,
800-223-1130
topconmedical.com | 
