TO ASSESS THE LEVEL OF OCULAR AND PERI-OCULAR DISCOMFORT IN HEALTH CARE WORKERS WHILE USING VARIOUS PROTECTION STRATEGIES (GOGGLES, FACE SHIELDS AND FACE MASKS) DURING CARE OF COVID-19 PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic was caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which spreads through aerosol produced during coughing or sneezing. Face masks, Goggles and face shields have become an essential part of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) being used by the Health Care Workers (HCWs) involved in COVID-19 patient care. We aim to assess the level of ocular and peri-ocular discomfort in healthcare workers while using various protection strategies (goggles, face shields and masks) during the care of COVID-19 patients.
Materials and methods: This prospective observational Study included HCWs working in COVID-19 patient care after fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The participants completed a questionnaire consisting of general questions, systemic and ocular comorbidities, hospital practices, duration of health care work and regarding problems faced with goggles/ face shield/ face mask and their preferences.
Results: 110 HCWs participated in our study. Average age of the participants was 33.6 years. 57.3% were males. 83.6% were doctors. Hypertension and Dry eye were the most common systemic and ocular illness among the participants respectively. 56.4% needed prescription glasses. The quality of vision with goggles and face shield was significantly better as compared to face mask. Skin related problems such as skin abrasions, blisters or rash were significantly higher with the use of face mask.

Conclusion: The HCWs faced moderate pain and difficulty in communication during patient care while using the three PPEs with no significant difference between the three PPEs in terms of discomfort/pain and communication with the patients. Face masks were associated with significantly poor vision and maximum skin related problems.