Evaluating Eye Drop Instillation Technique and Its Determinants in Glaucoma Patients

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Patient Care

Background:

• Glaucoma management relies heavily on topical antiglaucoma eye drops.
• Effective administration of eye drops is critical for achieving target intraocular pressure.
• Suboptimal eye drop instillation technique can compromise treatment efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the proficiency of eye drop instillation technique in glaucoma patients.
• To identify demographic and clinical factors influencing eye drop administration.
• To highlight areas for improved patient education and support.

Main Methods:

• 113 glaucoma patients with at least one month of self-administered eye drop experience were evaluated.
• Patients instilled artificial tears as they normally would, with the process scored by trained staff.
• A comprehensive scoring system quantified technique, analyzing determinants like age and visual acuity.

Main Results:

• Only 19.7% of patients demonstrated adequate eye drop instillation technique.
• Nearly half of patients (48.67%) succeeded on the first attempt, with an average of 1.7 drops dispensed.
• 37.17% experienced ocular surface or adnexa contact; older age and worse visual acuity were linked to poorer technique.

Conclusions:

• Eye drop instillation technique requires significant attention from eye care professionals for glaucoma patients.
• Targeted interventions are needed, particularly for elderly patients and those with diminished visual acuity.
• Enhanced patient education on proper eye drop instillation is essential for lifelong glaucoma care.