Jones Tests

Atlas of Primary Eyecare Procedures: pages 120-122

See also: Punctal Regurgitation / Lacrimal Sac Palpation (pages 114-115)

Jones test determines patency of Nasal-lacrimal drainage system

• Jones Test #1
1. Instill generous amount of fluorescein onto eye with suspected blockage - wait 1 minute
2. Have patient occlude one nostril (opposite fluorsceined eye) and blow into kleenex
3. Examine tissue with Burton lamp or cobalt blue light of slit-lamp.
4. If fluorescein is not present

a. Insert cotton-tipped applicator into nose (1 cm) for 10 seconds
b. Withdraw and check with Burton lamp or slit-lamp for fluorescein
5. If still no fluorescein

a. Massage lacrimal sac
b. Repeat blow nose test
6. * Positive Jones means fluorescein was recovered and system is patent and draining normally
 
• Jones Test #2

- Fluorescein is retrieved after D&I procedure
- Indicates a positive Jones 2 if fluorescein seen

Usually do not need to irrigate upper punctum if functional blockage