Overview
An infective corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, caused by an infection. These ulcers can lead to significant vision loss if not treated promptly.Diagnosis
Key diagnostic criteria include ocular pain, redness, photophobia, decreased vision, and a visible defect on the cornea 1.
Diagnostic tests may include slit-lamp examination with fluorescein staining to visualize the ulcer and cultures of corneal scrapings to identify the causative organism 1.Management
Lubricants may reduce the risk of corneal injury in critically ill, sedated, and mechanically ventilated patients 1.
Polyethylene chambers may be more effective than eye ointment in preventing corneal injury in this population 1.Special Populations
Interventions to prevent corneal injury are specifically discussed for critically ill, sedated, and mechanically ventilated patients 1.Key Recommendations
Lubricants are recommended for preventing corneal injury in critically ill, sedated, and mechanically ventilated patients 1. (Evidence: Moderate)
Polyethylene chambers may be considered for preventing corneal injury in critically ill, sedated, and mechanically ventilated patients 1. (Evidence: Weak)References
1 do Prado PR, Silveira RCCP, Vettore MV, Fossum M, Vabo GL, Gimenes FRE. Nursing interventions to prevent corneal injury in critically ill sedated and mechanically ventilated patients: A systematic review of interventions. Intensive & critical care nursing 2023. link