Free AAMA Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Practice Question

A visual acuity test, specifically checking distance vision, is the best initial assessment for a patient who reports difficulty in seeing objects at a distance. This test helps determine the clarity and sharpness of the patient's vision, which is critical when they are experiencing issues with distant objects. The Snellen chart is commonly used to test distance vision and will provide a quantitative measure of the patient's visual acuity. Checking near vision with a Jaeger chart would not be appropriate in this scenario as the patient's complaint pertains to distance sight. Obtaining a medical history is important but would not directly assess visual acuity. While the patient may need to be referred to an opthamologist, this is not the initial action.