Practices of eye care nurses in handling ocular emergencies at Mengo Hospital. A descriptive cross-sectional study.
Keywords:
Practices, eye-care, ocular emergencies, Mengo HospitalAbstract
Background:
This study assessed the practices of nurses in handling ocular emergencies at Mengo Hospital.
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among 32 eye care nurses selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing emergency response practices, confidence in management, and availability of emergency equipment. Data analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel and Word.
Results:
The majority of respondents, 20(62%), were female, while 12(38%) were aged between 30–39 years. The findings revealed considerable gaps in the practical management of ocular emergencies. About 20(62%) of respondents reported that they did not perform eye irrigation during chemical eye burns, despite it being an essential first-aid procedure. Additionally, 11(34%) indicated low confidence in managing chemical eye injuries. The study further showed that 21(66%) of nurses lacked access to emergency kits and essential equipment required during ocular emergencies. Furthermore, more than half of the participants had never received updates on emergency eye care management, which negatively affected confidence and consistency in clinical practice.
Conclusion:
The study found inadequate practical preparedness among eye care nurses in managing ocular emergencies, mainly due to insufficient training, lack of emergency equipment, and absence of updated clinical guidelines.
Recommendations:
Hospitals should strengthen practical training programs, ensure the availability of ocular emergency kits, and establish regular mentorship and supervision programs to improve emergency eye care practices among nurses.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Fred Yiga, Judith Kaziro, Donatus Kimera, Jane Frances Namuddu (Author)
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