FP1007 : Knowledge & practices of rural medical practitioners for ophthalmic drugs & administration technique

Dr.Sangeeta Bawankure

Aim – The purpose of this study was to identify level of knowledge & practices about ophthalmic drugs and their regime with administration technique among rural medical practitioners. Method – A cross sectional study was done. Data was collected using a semistructured questionnaire developed by researchers. Result – Most of them (89%) were prescribing either antibiotic or antibiotic and steroid combination eye drops in almost every patient regardless of eye disease. All the respondents advised their eye patients not to allow eye drop bottle tip to touch their eyes. There appear to be divergent views on frequency of topical medication. All were aware that eye ointment should be applied at bed time. Conclusion – Our study showed that the level of knowledge & practices of rural medical practitioners was not of required level, they could get benefit from educational outreach programs specifically addressing eye drop usage & ocular health complications because of eye drops like steroids.