Intensive Care Nursing/Nursing Cares of the ICU patient/Eye Care
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/57/AyeIeye.gif)
Eye Care
editThe potential for damage to the eyes is a recognised risk for the ICU patient due to sedation and paralysing agents, reduced or absent blinking, infection and the environment.
To start, take a look at this resourceː
Eye Assessment
editPart of routine practice as part of initial thorough assessment at the start of each shift. Assess forː
- Risk factors for Occular Surface Disorder (OSD)
- Patient ability to close own eyelids
- Eye & eyelid cleanliness
- Corneal dryness or discolouration
- Signs of infection or red eyes
- Eye care interventions
Potential Issues
- Lagopthalmus (incomplete eye closure)
- Occular surface disorder
- Conjunctival Oedema (Chemosis)
Resources
Kam et al (2013) Eye Care in the Critically Ill: A National Survey and Protocol