During which examination would the iris be evaluated?

The iris is primarily evaluated during a slit lamp examination. This procedure allows the eye care professional to obtain a magnified view of the front structures of the eye, including the cornea, anterior chamber, lens, and the iris itself. Using a specialized microscope, the examiner can assess the condition of the iris, checking for any abnormalities like discoloration, lesions, or changes in its shape which can indicate various ocular or systemic conditions.

In contrast, other examinations mentioned do not specifically focus on the iris. A fundus examination is aimed at evaluating the retina and optic nerve at the back of the eye, while a visual acuity test assesses how well a patient can see at various distances but does not provide details about the iris or anterior structures. A general physical exam may include an assessment of overall health but will not specifically focus on evaluating the iris or any finer details regarding ocular health. Therefore, the slit lamp examination is the correct choice for evaluating the iris.