Your appointment in the eye department

The eye department is located on A floor in Sheffield Children’s Hospital. When you come to your appointment, you will be greeted by a receptionist who will ask you to check in. You will then be called in by the orthoptist for your appointment.

Vision test

It is important for us to test each eye separately to see if 1 eye is weaker than the other. A patch or glasses may be used to cover 1 eye in order to do this. It would help if you could practice covering each eye in turn as a game before you come.

Your child’s vision is assessed by the orthoptist with pictures or letters. This will be age appropriate and tailored to your child’s needs. Orthoptists can test all ages and abilities so please do not worry if you think your child will not be able to name the pictures or letters.

We emphasise the importance of saying ‘looking games’ rather than eye testing, as a lot of information can be gained about a child’s vision by observing them in a play situation.

Vision tests for young children

Vision tests for young children usually use familiar shapes and icons such as a fish, car, clock, boot, duck, apple, house, and so on.

What happens next?

If your child has an eye problem such as reduced vision or squint, they will discuss with you the next steps of seeing another clinician within the eye department.

If the orthoptist finds your child’s eyes are normal they will be discharged.

It may be necessary to continue to monitor your child’s vision. For example, if no problem was found but testing was incomplete or if your child has a medical condition requiring regular eye reviews.

Further appointments will be arranged by the appointments team either by booking and sending you an appointment, or by adding your child onto a review list. When your child’s appointment is due, you will receive a letter inviting you to call us for an appointment. This will help you choose the most convenient time and day.

What if I am unable to attend at the time or date you have given me?

If your are unable to attend the appointment you have been given, please call the appointments line on 0114 305 3691.

The appointments team will rearrange the appointment time and day with you. If you do not attend your appointment without prior notice, you will be discharged and no further appointment will be sent out.