FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH CORNEAL ULCER AMONG PATIENTS RECEIVING EYE CARE SERVICES AT EYE DEPARTMENT, JINJA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Introduction

The aim of the study was factors associated with corneal ulcers among patients receiving eye care services at JRRH.

Specific objectives

the specific objectives were; to find out demographic and family factors, socioeconomic factors, and predisposing factors associated with corneal ulcers among patients receiving eye care services at among patients receiving eye care services at JRRH.

Methodology

A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted. 

Study methods. A hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study methodology was used. Data was collected from 60 patients’ questionnaires of those who had corneal ulcers at JRRH. The data was collected using questionnaires and was presented in tables, figures, and narratives.

Results

on predisposing factors the research revealed that the majority 83.3% of the patients who had corneal ulcers had a history of TEM use,80% had a history of trauma, and 66.7% with no protective gear at work, on the demographic factors; majority by 80% Lived in rural areas,66.3% were male and 51.6% were illiterates.

Conclusion

According to the study, most of the patients who had corneal ulcers lacked awareness of the effects of TEM use, had a history of trauma mostly from places of work because they had no eyewear which predisposed them to corneal ulcers, males engaged in risk activities e.g. motorcyclists, mining and farming.

Recommendations

Regular eye health education on TEM use, protective gear use, extensive training of community health personnel on primary screening, management, and referral of corneal ulcer patients.  Ministry of Health together with other non-government organizations should make eye care services available at PHC centers, more OCOs, Ophthalmologists, and Opticians should be trained and employed to allow quick access to extensive management.