Inpatient vision screening: A needs assessment

Abstract

Insufficient vision is a common but under-recognized risk factor among hospitalized patients that affects patient safety and self-care. Nurses may be ideal providers to screen inpatients’ vision, but little is known regarding their knowledge of inpatient vision, screening skills, and willingness to serve as screeners. We conducted a pilot, prospective, qualitative, and quantitative interview study and enrolled 25 consenting registered nurses. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze discrete questionnaire items and responses to qualitative open-ended items. Forty-eight percent (12/25) of nurses believed that vision problems were “moderately common,” half (13/25) did not know how to administer vision screenings, and three-quarters (19/25) had never administered screenings. Half of nurses (12/25) believed vision screening would be feasible, though over half (14/25) believed physicians should conduct the screening. This study underscores the necessity and positive support for inpatient vision screening; however, while nurses play a critical role, an inter-professional approach should be explored.