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Referral and warning signs
When to refer
Not applicable - General guidance.
Signs and symptoms
- Not applicable - Guidance topic.
Risk factors
- Not applicable.
Diagnosis
Clinical assessment
Not applicable.
Diagnostic criteria
Not applicable.
Management
Pharmacological treatment
- Eye Drops:
- - Initial phase (until control): Apply 1 drop every 2 hours.
- - Maintenance phase: Reduce frequency as condition improves (e.g., QID).
- Eye Ointment:
- - If used alone: Apply 3-4 times daily.
- - If used with drops: Apply ointment at night only.
- Duration: Continue treatment for 48 hours after clinical healing appears complete.
Monitoring
Monitor clinical response to treatment.
Complications
- Under-treatment if frequency reduced too soon.
- Toxicity or side effects with prolonged or too frequent use of certain drops (e.g., steroids).
Patient education
- Correct technique for instilling eye drops/applying ointment.
- Importance of adhering to prescribed frequency and duration.
- Do not share eye preparations.
Uganda-specific notes
Standard approach for common topical eye medications.
References
- Uganda Clinical Guidelines (UCG) 2023
Chapter 20, Section 20.1.1