Knowledge and Practice on Computer Vision Syndrome among Nursing Students

Computer vision syndrome, also known as Digital Eye Strain (DES), describes a group of eye - and vision - related problems that result from prolonged use of electronic gadgets. The prevalence of eye strain was higher among students taking online classes compared to the general public (50.6% vs 33.2%). Majority of students are not aware about computer vision syndrome which is due to the long term effect of prolonged computer use strain on the eyes. Prevention remains the main strategy in managing computer vision syndrome. The descriptive study was conducted to assess the knowledge and practice regarding computer vision syndrome among nursing students at College of Nursing, Tertiary care Training and Research Hospital, South India. The instrument consists of: Participants profile, Knowledge Questionnaire on computer vision syndrome and Practice Questionnaire on computer vision syndrome. A total of 370 students who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were selected using stratified random sampling technique. The study findings revealed that 20.6% of the students had adequate knowledge. 1.4 % of the students followed healthy practices while using electronic gadgets. There is a significant relationship between knowledge and practice on computer vision syndrome (pless than 0.001). Statistically significant association was also observed between knowledge and practice on CVS with selected participants? profile. Findings of the study revealed that there is a need to organize educational program on computer vision syndrome.