Emergent Ophthalmic Disease Knowledge among Non-Ophthalmologist Healthcare Professionals in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia: Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Patients with emergent ophthalmic diseases are likely to be examined by healthcare providers before an ophthalmologist, so it is essential that nonspecialists have adequate knowledge for recognition and preliminary diagnosis. Objectives: To assess knowledge of retinal detachment, acute angle-closure glaucoma, temporal arteritis, and central retinal artery occlusion among non-ophthalmologist healthcare professionals. Methods: We conducted an observational cross-sectional study of 351 healthcare workers, including medical residents, nurses, pharmacists, and optometrists, in western Saudi Arabia using a self-report questionnaire. Results: Total knowledge scores were 75.21% for retinal detachment and 74.9% for acute angle-closure glaucoma, but only 44.15% for temporal arteritis and 41.88% for central retinal artery occlusion. Stepwise logistic regression revealed that level of education was the most significant factor influencing knowledge of different eye diseases. Conclusion: Ophthalmologists are encouraged to promote greater awareness and provide other healthcare professionals with the knowledge required to recognize emergent eye diseases for early detection.