Which instrument is typically used to correct optical prescriptions?

The autorefractor is the instrument commonly used to obtain an optical prescription. It works by shining light into the eye and measuring how the light is changed as it enters the eye, allowing the device to automatically determine the refractive error (such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism) of the patient. This quick and efficient method helps in establishing an accurate prescription for glasses or contact lenses, making it a popular choice in eye care practices.

In contrast, a retinoscope is used to evaluate how light reflects off the retina, primarily during a subjective refraction test; it aids the eye care professional but does not provide a prescription directly. A Snellen chart is employed for vision testing at a distance to determine how clearly a person can see, but it does not measure refractive errors or provide prescriptions directly. An ophthalmoscope is utilized for examining the interior structures of the eye, including the retina and optic nerve, but again, it does not determine or correct refractive errors. Thus, the autorefractor stands out as the most suitable instrument for correcting optical prescriptions.