Development and validation of an eye care educational programme for intensive care unit nurses

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Critical Care Medicine
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Existing intensive care unit eye care guidelines lack consistent methodologies.
• There is a need for standardized eye care protocols in critical care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate an educational program for intensive care unit nurses focused on eye care.
• To assess the program's impact on nurses' knowledge, awareness, and practice regarding patient eye care.

Main Methods:

• A one-sample pre/post-programme evaluation design was employed.
• The educational program was developed using literature review and needs assessment.
• Thirty intensive care unit nurses participated in the study.

Main Results:

• The educational program led to enhanced knowledge, awareness, and practice of eye care among nurses.
• Nurses reported high satisfaction with the developed educational program.
• The program demonstrated effectiveness in improving essential eye care skills.

Conclusions:

• Intensified eye care education is crucial for both new and experienced intensive care unit nurses.
• The developed program serves as a valuable strategy for periodic patient eye status assessment and appropriate care facilitation.
• Continuous education on advanced eye care methods is recommended for all critical care nursing staff.