A bundle improves eye care in PICU.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Critical Care

Background:

• Critically ill children in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) are at high risk for corneal epithelial deficits.
• Existing eye care practices in the studied PICU were insufficient to prevent these deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a novel eye care bundle on the provision of eye care and the incidence of corneal epithelial deficits in a PICU population.

Main Methods:

• An eye care bundle was implemented, including a standardized guideline, electronic prescribing of eye lubricants, and staff education.
• Ophthalmic examinations were conducted weekly for two months post-implementation to evaluate eye care and corneal health.

Main Results:

• Formal eye care provision increased dramatically from 19% to 96%.
• The incidence of corneal epithelial deficits decreased post-intervention.
• Simple eye ointment proved effective in reducing deficits, even with incomplete eyelid closure.

Conclusions:

• An eye care bundle, supported by a multidisciplinary team, enhances eye care delivery in PICUs.
• This approach is effective in preventing corneal complications in critically ill pediatric patients.