Lubratex eye ointment with polyethylene cover significantly reduces corneal abrasion in ICU patients: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Corneal abrasion is a frequent complication in critically ill, intubated patients, potentially leading to visual impairment. This study compares the efficacy of three ocular care methods in preventing corneal abrasion among this vulnerable population. We conducted a randomized controlled trial involving 156 intubated adult patients admitted to the ICU. Participants were randomly allocated to one of three intervention groups (n = 52 per group): (1) polyethylene cover only, (2) polyethylene cover with artificial tear drops, and (3) polyethylene cover with Lubratex eye ointment. One eye per patient was randomly assigned as the control, receiving standard ICU eye care. Daily assessments over five days included a standardized dryness and corneal abrasion checklist, graded strip evaluation of eye dryness, and documentation of corneal abrasion incidence. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (SPSS-18). The incidence of corneal abrasion was significantly lower in the group receiving polyethylene cover with Lubratex eye ointment (4%) compared to the polyethylene cover with artificial tears group (36%, p < 0.001) and the polyethylene cover only group (60%, p < 0.001). The combined application of a polyethylene cover with Lubratex eye ointment effectively prevents corneal abrasion in intubated ICU patients. This method demonstrates superior efficacy compared to polyethylene covers used alone or with artificial tears. We recommend its implementation as standard practice for corneal abrasion prophylaxis in this high-risk population.Trial Registration. This study is registered with the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT201506294736N8) and can be accessed at www.IRCT.ir.