Effectiveness of teachers in the detection of eye disorders among primary school children in Abakaliki Metropolis, Ebonyi State Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Schoolteachers who have knowledge on eye diseases can detect early children with eye disorders and refer them promptly  to an eye specialist. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of teachers in a vision screening program for primary school  children in Abakaliki.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 20 randomly selected primary  schoolteachers in Abakaliki to screen for vision abnormalities and detect eye problems among 350 children from 5 schools. Teachers  participated in a 2-day training using a modified training algorithm on vision screening using a Snellen’s chart and in the identification of  common ocular abnormalities. Data was analysed using IBM SPSS version 26 statistical program and a p-value of <0.05 at 95% confidence  level was statistically significant.

Results: A total of 379 children were enrolled into the study however, 350 (92.3%) children  participated in the study. School teachers correctly identified 283 (92.8%) children who had normal vision and 33(73.3%) who had  impaired vision. Overall 60 (17.1%) children with perceived eye defects were referred to the ophthalmologist for re-examination.  Refractive error and allergic conjunctivitis were the most common eye problems identified and children with refractive error and other ocular morbidity were referred to the base hospital.

Conclusion: Teachers are a valuable resource in the detection of eye disorders among school children. Their effectiveness can be further enhanced by regular training, and collaboration with eye care professionals.  Addressing these limitations through policy implementation can lead to better eye health outcomes for school children in Nigeria.