Perceived Eye-Related Symptoms and Influencing Factors in Hospital Nurses

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Ophthalmology
• Nursing

Background:

• Nurses face increased eye discomfort from visual display terminals and mask use, potentially exacerbating symptoms.
• Identifying factors contributing to eye-related symptoms in nurses is crucial for developing targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate factors influencing eye-related symptoms in hospital nurses, both during and outside of working hours.
• To differentiate between on-duty and off-duty influences on nurses' eye health.

Main Methods:

• A self-reported questionnaire was administered to 154 hospital nurses in South Korea.
• Data collected included demographics, perceived health, dry-eye symptoms, occupational stress, and eye-related symptoms.

Main Results:

• Nurses reported more eye symptoms on duty than off duty.
• On duty, female sex and dry-eye symptoms significantly influenced eye complaints.
• Off duty, prolonged computer use (≥4 hours) and dry-eye symptoms were identified as key factors.

Conclusions:

• Dry-eye symptoms are a significant predictor of eye discomfort in nurses, regardless of duty status.
• Interventions targeting dry-eye symptoms can help alleviate eye discomfort in hospital nurses.
• Nurses should prioritize eye health management during both work and non-work hours.