A review of patient knowledge and awareness regarding the use and storage of ophthalmic drops

Abstract

Background: Ophthalmic drops are a widely used pharmaceutical form for the treatment of ocular conditions. However, patient knowledge regarding the appropriate use and storage remains inconsistent and is often suboptimal. The aim was to determine the level of patient knowledge and awareness related to the correct usage and storage of ophthalmic drops, through a literature review.

Methods: Relevant studies published after the year 2000 were selected for review based on the inclusion criteria, focusing on patient knowledge and storage practices related to ophthalmic drops.

Results: Twenty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria, with an average sample size of 315 participants. Of these, fourteen studies involved glaucoma patients, two studies included postoperative cataract patients, two studies comprised of patients with both glaucoma and ocular hypertension, and ten studies involved patients with various ocular conditions that warranted the use of ophthalmic drops. To assess instillation techniques, nine studies employed video recordings, ten used questionnaires, five incorporated both methods and four studies were observational. The results demonstrated that eyedrop administration remains a challenge among patients, resulting in bottle contact, inaccuracy and poor hand hygiene. The provision of education significantly improved technique in short-term follow-ups with improvements noted in accuracy, reduced contamination, and increased patient adherence. Poor eyedrop technique was noted in elderly patients, patients with low health literacy and in patients undergoing long-term therapy. Forgetfulness, inattentiveness, limited prior instruction, as well as physical and visual impairment were identified as attributers to correct eyedrop administration.

Conclusion: Patients lack knowledge and awareness on the use and storage of ophthalmic drops. Enhancing patient education is essential to improve understanding and correct practices of ophthalmic drop administration.