Knowledge gap in care home eye treatment, finds study

Nurses in care homes require more support in the management of long-term glaucoma conditions in elderly residents, a study run at Manchester Metropolitan university has found.

The research was funded by the International Glaucoma Association and the Royal College of Nursing to identify gaps in nurses’ knowledge of glaucoma. Professors and lecturers from the university’s nursing and ophthalmology faculties analysed 24 qualitative interviews in north west care homes.

Conclusions drawn highlighted ‘limited knowledge’ on eye conditions and treatments. Senior nursing lecturer and researcher Donna Davenport said: ‘This study, whilst small, has identified a number of key themes which need to be addressed to reduce risk and ensure staff have the right skills to deliver high-quality care. We saw and heard some excellent examples of good practice despite some of the challenges and barriers faced by the staff interviewed. However, more needs to be done to enhance and develop nurse’s skills in eye care, particularly when caring for the elderly.’