Caregiver competence in pediatric eye drop administration: An observational study

Purpose

This study aimed to assess competence in eye-drop administration technique among caregivers of children with eye conditions and their reported education on eye-drop administration.

Methods

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among caregivers of children aged ≤14 years in an ophthalmology clinic. Caregivers completed self-administered questionnaires and demonstrated their eye-drop technique.

Results

Among the 186 caregivers, more than one-third were not competent. The most common performance problems were not washing hands before administration (68.2 %), not holding the bottle tip over the eye (60.7 %), not closing the eye after administration (58.1 %). Risk factors associated with eye drop administration include the child's age, perceived difficulty, and no experience. Experience with eye drop administration was a protective factor. Only 27.4 % of caregivers reported receiving education on eye drop administration. Video was the preferred format for education.

Conclusion

One-third of caregivers were not competent in eye drop administration which may contribute to reduced drug efficacy, compromised treatment outcomes, delayed recovery, or increased risk of complications. Instructional videos that address common mistakes in administration may help address these issues.