Knowledge, Attitude and Practice in Assessment of Childhood Ocular Disorders Among Primary Health Workers in Garissa District, Kenya

Abstract

Objective: To determine the knowledge, attitude and practice in assessment of childhood ocular disorders among primary health workers in Garissa district, Kenya.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2013 and January 2014 in health centers and dispensaries within Garissa district. Quantitative data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires among 45 primary health workers. The process was through direct interview where the participants were asked questions and shown pictures of common childhood ocular disorders.

Results: The level of knowledge and practice varied depending on the area of assessment amongst the 45 participants. The correct diagnosis among participants were 51.11% for ophthalmia neonatorum, 13.33% for congenital glaucoma, 80%, 13.33% and 4.44% for ophthalmia neonatorum, congenital glaucoma, strabismus, corneal ulcer and refractive error respectively. Most (80%) of the respondents attributed wearing of spectacles to poor vision without giving actual diagnosis of refractive errors. Red eyes were mainly attributed to trauma (44.44%) and infection (44.44%). White eye reflex was mainly attributed to cataract by 64.44% of the participants while only 6.67% mentioned retinoblastoma. Only 20% had some knowledge on physical ocular signs of vitamin A deficiency. Over 50% of the participants would refer the cases assessed apart from ophthalmia neonatorum, red eyes and vitamin A deficiency which most of the participants would start the patients on treatment first. Most respondents believe the eye conditions could lead to vision loss except for strabismus.

Conclusion: There was generally poor knowledge in both assessment and management of childhood ocular disorders. Structured approach should be enhanced through regular training and use of childhood eye disease manual.