Ophthalmic Assistant

Answer: D - pet ownership.

While pet ownership may be pertinent to a patient’s allergy history, it is not generally considered part of their social history. If the patient answers affirmatively to questions concerning tobacco use, alcohol consumption, or recreational drug use, the ophthalmic assistant should ask more specific questions (eg, how many cigarettes does the patient smoke per day or how many drinks does the patient have per day?). Answering inquiries regarding their social history may be embarrassing for the patient; therefore, tact and sensitivity should be assumed by the ophthalmic assistant.