Eye Protection: Survey of Dermatologists and Office Staff.

BACKGROUND: Splash injuries to mucosal membranes during procedures have been well documented in dermatology and carry a potential risk of blood-borne virus transmission. The risk to the ocular mucosa can be minimized with proper eye protection.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the prevalence of wearing eye protection during dermatologic procedures by physicians, trainees, and office staff in dermatology.

METHODS: A Cross-sectional observational study of US dermatologists, residents, nurses, and medical assistants was performed regarding eye protection during dermatologic procedures.

RESULTS: The rates of wearing eye protection in every dermatologic procedure are as follows: dermatologists 42.3%, residents/fellows 39.6%, and nurses/medical assistants 25%. Ninety-eight percent of respondents thought blood-borne illnesses could be transmitted by splash injury. The rates of having splash injury during your career are as follows: dermatologists 73.1%, residents/fellows 16.7%, and nurses/medical assistants 50%. The rates of having a splash injury within the last year are as follows: dermatologists 11.5%, residents/fellows 8.3%, and nurses/medical assistants 35.7%.

CONCLUSION: The use of eye protection is an important component of the personal protective equipment to help prevent transmission of blood-borne illnesses. Dermatologists and staff should strive to increase awareness and the use of face masks with eye shields or face mask with separate eye protection in every dermatologic procedure.