Making a Difference in Eye Care of the Critically Ill Patients

Ocular surface disorders are frequently encountered in patients under sedation and paralyzed patients in intensive care units (ICUs). In the ICUs, treatment is usually focused on the management of organ failures, and eye care becomes a side issue. As a result, ophthalmological complications do occur (incidence ranges from 3.6% to 60%) and are frequently overlooked in this setting. To identify the best available evidence in providing the best eye care to prevent exposure keratopathy, a literature review was performed. The databases of PUBMED, COCHRAN, and EMBASE library were searched. We only looked at higher quality articles. Among various eye care measures that have been advocated to prevent exposure keratopathy, the most effective is the application of polyethylene covers. Early diagnosis and effective treatment will help prevent microbial keratitis and visual loss.