Twelve tips for developing key-feature questions (KFQ) for effective assessment of clinical reasoning.

Clinical reasoning is the cognitive process that makes it possible for us to reach conclusions from clinical data. "A key feature (KF) is defined as a significant step in the resolution of a clinical problem. Examinations using key-feature questions (KFQs) focus on a challenging aspect in the diagnosis and management of a clinical problem where the candidates are most likely to make errors.

Refractive error magnitude and variability: Relation to age.

Purpose: To investigate mean ocular refraction (MOR) and astigmatism, over the human age range and compare severity of refractive error to earlier studies from clinical populations having large age ranges.

Methods: For this descriptive study patient age, refractive error and history of surgery affecting refraction were abstracted from the Waterloo Eye Study database (WatES). Average MOR, standard deviation of MOR and astigmatism were assessed in relation to age.

Visual and binocular status in elementary school children with a reading problem.

Purpose: This descriptive study provides a summary of the binocular anomalies seen in elementary school children identified with reading problems.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of all children identified with reading problems and seen by the University of Waterloo, Optometry Clinic, from September 2012 to June 2013.

Results: Files of 121 children (mean age 8.

Value of Routine Eye Examinations in Asymptomatic Patients.

Purpose: To determine if routine eye examinations in asymptomatic patients result in spectacle prescription change, new critical diagnosis, or new management of existing conditions. We also investigate whether age and time between assessments (assessment interval) impact detection rates.

Methods: The Waterloo Eye Study (WatES) database was created from a retrospective file review of 6397 patients seen at the University of Waterloo Optometry Clinic.