Why do we tape patient's eyes during surgery?
To protect them!
During anesthesia based medical procedures, the most common type of damage to the eye is corneal abrasion. This tear or graze of the cornea on the eye is very painful for the patient. In most cases, a corneal abrasion occurs because the eye is not closed fully during a procedure and the eye dries out. About 60% of patients undergoing anesthesia do not close their eyes naturally. In addition, general anesthetics reduce the rate of tear production. The dry cornea may stick to the inside of the eyelid and the abrasion occurs when the eye reopens.
Covering the eyes also protects them by preventing any debris from getting into the eye.
Preventing Corneal Abrasion
To prevent this from occurring the patient’s eyes are taped and/or a water based ointment is put into the eyes. The most common method is taping since ointment can be irritating and blurred vision can occur for up to eight hours after a procedure.
Taping does work when it is done right. But sometimes the tape gets on the eye lashes and they are pulled out when the tape is removed, distressing to the patient. Also, taping is difficult with gloved hands.
Eyegard - A Better Solution
EyeGard is made with a special medical grade adhesive and a latex free breathable, waterproof, hypoallergenic material that is gentler than tape.
- Saves time. No need to peel, cut and position the tape to make sure it is on properly. This has to be done with gloved hands, which can be difficult, wasting valuable OR time.
- Easy to apply and easy to remove. EyeGards have a non-adhesive tab that makes it easy to peel, apply and remove with gloved hands.
- Reduces lash removal. The adhesive is light enough to reduce damage to the outer eye.
- Protects. Made of a LATEX FREE, breathable, waterproof, hypoallergenic material. EyeGard protects your patient’s eyes far more effectively than manual taping.
- Convenient. Comes in a dispenser box that can be mounted for easy access.
Save time and money, and improve patient satisfaction by switching to Eyegard today!
Download our whitepaper today to learn more: Patient Eye Protection During Anesthesia: The Risks of Taping
