Assessment of Medical Students' Knowledge of Ocular First Aid During Trauma: A Cross-Sectional Study From King Abdulaziz University.

Abstract

Background Ocular trauma is defined as an eye injury of diverse types and subtypes, all of which can threaten vision. Hence, a precise first-aid approach is crucial to salvage the eyes and prevent blindness. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the level of knowledge among medical students at King Abdulaziz University (KAU) and identify factors that affect knowledge regarding ocular first aid in cases of trauma. Methodology A cross-sectional approach was used, targeting KAU medical students. First, students were asked to voluntarily respond to a previously used questionnaire that contained demographic data, including gender, marital status, socioeconomic status, academic year, and city of residence, followed by a history of ocular trauma. Then, questions were asked to assess their knowledge regarding different types of ocular trauma and proper first aid. Results A total of 310 participants responded to the questionnaire. Participants included both sexes, with 169 (50.8%) being males. Only 89 (26.7%) participants had a history of managing ocular injury. Knowledge levels were divided into good 76 (27%) and poor 201 (73%). Third-year students had the highest percentage of poor knowledge, whereas sixth-year students had the highest level of knowledge. The source of knowledge was mainly from studies. Conclusions The ocular first-aid knowledge level was predominantly poor, accounting for 201 (73%) of all responses. Thus, steps to enhance knowledge should be taken.