FACTORS PREDISPOSING TO BACTERIAL CONJUNCTIVITIS AMONG PATIENTS RECEIVING EYE HEALTH SERVICES IN THE EYE CLINIC AT JINJA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

The purpose of this study

To investigate the social factors predisposing to bacterial conjunctivitis of respondents aged 5-20 years of age receiving eye care services in the Jinja regional referral hospital eye clinic.

The objectives

To determine the social factors influencing the prevalence, management, and possible complications of bacterial conjunctivitis.

The study method

A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used employing both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection. 60 patients were employed, and it took a short period for data analysis and interpretation.

Principle findings

This study established the factors predisposing to bacterial conjunctivitis; those staying in crowded areas 37(20.79%), those in only dirty areas 58(32.58%) both dusty and crowded areas 97 (54.49%). The majority of patients were going to eye care centers for management 78(43.82%).

Conclusion

The study established that there are several social factors including exposure to infected persons, contact lens wear, sinusitis, and exposure to excretion from people with STDs. This also established that the young generation was more affected by bacterial conjunctivitis.

Recommendations

The Ministry of Health should equip all hospitals, and health centers to enable ophthalmic clinical officers and ophthalmic assistants to diagnose bacterial conjunctivitis the government through the Ministry of Health train and recruit more health workers to create more awareness among people about the causes, the predisposing factors and preventive measures of bacterial conjunctivitis.