FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO OPEN GLOBE INJURIES AMONG PATIENTS ATTENDING EYE CARE SERVICES AT MBALE REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL FROM AUGUST 2022 TO MARCH 2023. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background

Cases of open globe injuries are on the increase in various countries mainly as a result of occupation, accidents, and sharp instruments in children. Thus, this study determined the factors contributing to open globe eye injuries among patients attending the eye care services at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital.

 Methodology

Used a cross-sectional design employing quantitative methods of data collection. 100 respondents who participated in the study were selected, where only patients with open globe injuries as well as caretakers were chosen among patients attending eye care services at MRRH.

 Results

Regarding socio-demographic factors, the majority of the respondents (43%) who drank alcohol, (79%) agreed that open globe injuries are more common in children than adults, (52%) mentioned the cornea as the most affected part of the eye.

According to individual-related factors, (70%) of the respondents agreed that social-economic status is associated with open globe injuries, (58%) said playing with sharp instruments/objects.

Regarding environmental-related factors contributing to open globe injuries, the majority (47%) got injuries at home, (35%) said industry/construction jobs have high risks of open globe injuries.

 Conclusions

Open globe injuries are more common at young age than the adults. Sharp objects like sticks are the most common cause of global injuries among individuals. The socioeconomic status of an individual is associated with global injuries

 Recommendations

Health workers especially ophthalmologists, and ophthalmic clinical officers should sensitize the community and the whole public on risk factors, causes, and how to prevent global injuries.  Parents should strictly monitor their children to prevent open globe injuries. Finally, industrial managers, construction engineers, and army commanding officers should procure protective gear and ensure that their workers take precautions like wearing protective gear while at work