Detection and treatment of perioperative corneal abrasions.
Corneal abrasion is the most common ocular injury occurring in the perioperative period. Corneal abrasion may occur during general anesthesia, monitored anesthesia care, regional anesthesia, or in the immediate recovery period. This injury is not usually apparent until the patient is in the PACU, and the perianesthesia nurse may be the first clinician to detect this complication. Preventive measures and vigilant care can help reduce the incidence of corneal abrasion in susceptible patients. Early detection and prompt intervention may help reduce the incidence of ocular morbidity. The purpose of this article is to explore the incidence, mechanism of injury, prevention, recognition, and treatment of perioperative corneal abrasion.
Moos
Daniel D
DD
Kearney Anesthesia Associates, PC, Kearney, NE, USA. moosd@charter.net
Lind
Diana M
DM
D000768:Anesthesia, General / Q000009:adverse effects; D001458:Bandages; D003315:Cornea / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D065306:Corneal Injuries; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D005135:Eye Protective Devices; D005451:Fluorescein Angiography; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007431:Intraoperative Complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods; D019990:Perioperative Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing; D016528:Postanesthesia Nursing / Q000379:methods; D012307:Risk Factors