What does the term "refraction" refer to in optometry?

The term "refraction" in optometry specifically refers to the process of determining the correct lens prescription for a patient. This involves assessing how light rays bend as they pass through the eye's optical media and where the light is focused relative to the retina. During a refraction, various techniques, such as using a phoropter or automated refractors, are employed to measure the eye's refractive error. This assessment helps optometrists prescribe corrective lenses that will enable patients to see clearly at various distances.

While measuring intraocular pressure, evaluating color vision, and assessing peripheral vision are essential components of a comprehensive eye examination, they do not pertain to "refraction." Intraocular pressure measurements are crucial for detecting conditions like glaucoma, color vision tests evaluate the ability to distinguish different colors, and peripheral vision assessments help identify any visual field defects. However, these aspects do not directly involve determining the lens prescription, which is the primary focus of refraction in the context of optometry.