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Current recommendations and practice regarding soft lens replacement and disinfection
1Department of Management Sciences, Rider University, Lawrenceville, NJ, USA.
Summary
Contact lens wearers often extend lens replacement intervals beyond practitioner recommendations. Improved patient education on proper lens care and discarding schedules is crucial for safe contact lens use.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Public Health
Background:
- Contact lens wear is common, necessitating adherence to care guidelines.
- Understanding wearer compliance is vital for preventing ocular complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess contact lens wearer compliance with professional recommendations regarding lens replacement and disinfection.
- To analyze trends in eye care provider recommendations versus patient practices.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of survey data from 1994-1995 concerning contact lens fit, wear, and care.
- Comparison of eye care provider recommendations with self-reported patient behaviors.
Main Results:
- Practitioner recommendations favor frequent replacement and daily disinfection for soft contact lenses.
- A significant discrepancy exists, with patients tending to use lenses longer than advised.
- Some 'disposable' lenses were recommended for replacement intervals exceeding two weeks.
Conclusions:
- Practitioner recommendations align with industry trends but patient adherence is lacking.
- Enhanced patient education on discarding intervals and product selection is needed.
- Contact lens fitters must provide clear instructions on wear and care to improve compliance.