Our Summary

This article discusses the importance of cleanliness in eye clinics to avoid the spread of diseases. It highlights that the Center for Disease Control suggests washing hands when they appear dirty, after touching patients, and after using medical equipment. Research points out that the lack of cleanliness in these settings can lead to the spread of hospital-acquired infections. This is particularly true in the case of epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC), a highly contagious eye condition. Some studies have even been able to trace the specific strain of the virus causing an EKC outbreak back to the medical instruments used, thanks to molecular analysis. Although most of these research studies focus on a certain type of viral infection and the use of a device to measure eye pressure, other common surfaces in clinics have also been found to carry viruses and bacteria. Hence, there is a need for more research in this area. In simple terms, maintaining high standards of cleanliness in eye clinics is crucial to prevent disease outbreaks, and more studies could help understand exactly how different instruments might be contributing to the spread of infections.

FAQs

  1. What measures are recommended for infection control in eye clinics?
  2. What is the link between hygiene in clinical settings and nosocomial outbreaks?
  3. Why is proper hygiene in eye clinics particularly important?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about ocular surgery is to follow proper hygiene practices to prevent infections. This includes washing hands frequently, especially before touching the eyes or any surgical instruments. It is important to keep the surgical area clean and avoid touching it with dirty hands or objects. Following these hygiene practices can help reduce the risk of post-operative infections and promote faster healing.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for ocular surgery include those with:

  • Cataracts: A clouding of the lens in the eye that can affect vision and may require surgical removal.
  • Glaucoma: A group of eye conditions that can lead to damage to the optic nerve and vision loss, which may require surgical intervention to lower intraocular pressure.
  • Retinal disorders: Conditions such as retinal detachment or macular degeneration may require surgery to repair or improve vision.
  • Corneal diseases: Conditions such as keratoconus or corneal dystrophies may require corneal transplant surgery.
  • Refractive errors: Patients with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism may opt for procedures such as LASIK or PRK to correct their vision.

It is important for patients to consult with an ophthalmologist to determine if they are a suitable candidate for ocular surgery and to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

Timeline

Before ocular surgery:

  1. Consultation with an ophthalmologist to discuss the need for surgery and potential risks and benefits.
  2. Pre-operative tests and evaluations to assess the patient’s eye health and overall medical condition.
  3. Instructions on pre-operative care, such as avoiding certain medications or foods.
  4. Consent form signed by the patient, acknowledging the risks of surgery.
  5. Pre-operative appointment to discuss anesthesia options and finalize surgical plans.

After ocular surgery:

  1. Recovery in a post-operative area with monitoring by medical staff.
  2. Instructions on post-operative care, such as using prescribed eye drops and avoiding strenuous activities.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the ophthalmologist to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  4. Gradual improvement in vision as the eye heals, with potential for fluctuations in vision during the recovery process.
  5. Long-term follow-up care to monitor for any complications or changes in vision.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific infection control measures are in place at the eye clinic where the surgery will be performed?
  2. Are all staff members required to wash their hands before and after interacting with patients and using medical equipment?
  3. How often are the instruments used during the surgery cleaned and sterilized?
  4. What steps are taken to prevent the spread of viral and bacterial infections in the clinic?
  5. How often are surfaces in the clinic, such as doorknobs and countertops, cleaned and disinfected?
  6. What is the protocol for handling contaminated equipment or surfaces in the clinic?
  7. How often are staff members trained on proper infection control procedures?
  8. Are there any specific precautions I should take before and after the surgery to prevent infection?
  9. What is the clinic’s protocol for notifying patients if there is a potential outbreak of a contagious infection?
  10. Are there any additional resources or information available for patients to learn more about infection control in eye clinics?

Reference

Authors: Abbas AA, Lian RR, Afshari NA. Journal: Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2020 Jan;31(1):28-32. doi: 10.1097/ICU.0000000000000630. PMID: 31770164