The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner performs a well-child examination on a 9-month-old infant who was born prematurely at 28 weeks’ gestation and was treated for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), with all symptoms resolved. When will the infant need an ophthalmologic exam?

Choice A reason: While early follow-up is important, 12 months may be too soon to detect late-onset visual complications. It is not the standard timing for post-ROP surveillance. Choice B reason: Waiting until 48 months may delay detection of amblyopia, strabismus, or refractive errors that can emerge earlier in children with a history of ROP. Choice C reason: Children treated for ROP should have a follow-up ophthalmologic exam at 24 months to assess visual development and detect any late sequelae. This timing aligns with guidelines for monitoring children at risk for visual impairment. Choice D reason: 60 months is too late for routine follow-up in children with resolved ROP. Early detection and intervention are critical to prevent long-term visual deficits.