Editor's note: This blog has been reviewed by Ann Dietrich, MD, FAAP, FACEP.
Nurses at the bedside may be exposed to a variety of illnesses, including contagious ones, like conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis, more commonly known as "pink eye," is when the conjunctiva — the layer of tissue covering the white area of the eyes and the inside of the eyelids — becomes inflamed. While conjunctivitis can be caused by allergens or irritants, the contagious types — bacterial and viral — can be concerning in healthcare settings. These forms spread easily, making proper precautions essential for nurses to protect both themselves and their patients.
Let’s explore some causes of conjunctivitis, how it can be potentially contracted, and actionable steps to prevent infection at work.
What causes conjunctivitis?
Understanding the causes of conjunctivitis is the first step in effective prevention. There are three main types:
- Viral conjunctivitis: This is caused by viruses such as adenovirus or, in some cases, the herpes simplex virus. This type spreads through respiratory droplets, contaminated hands, or surfaces.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: Oftentimes, this is caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Haemophilus influenzae. It can spread through direct contact with infected individuals, surfaces, or contaminated items.
- Allergic conjunctivitis: This is triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. Unlike viral and bacterial forms, allergic conjunctivitis isn’t contagious.
What are the symptoms?
Recognizing the early symptoms of conjunctivitis can help prevent the spread of the infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), common symptoms include:
- Redness or swelling in one or both eyes
- Watery or thick, yellow-green discharge
- Gritty sensation or itching in the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Crust forming on the eyelids and eyelashes
If symptoms develop, it’s important to seek medical evaluation promptly, avoid working until cleared, and follow appropriate treatment and isolation guidelines.
How can nurses contract this condition?
Due to frequent contact with patients, surfaces, and medical equipment, nurses are at an elevated risk of contracting conjunctivitis. This condition is contracted in some of the following ways:
- Direct contact: Touching infected secretions, such as tears or discharge, and then touching their own eyes without washing their hands.
- Contaminated surfaces: Handling equipment, linens, or other objects contaminated with the virus or bacteria.
- Airborne transmission: For viral conjunctivitis, exposure to respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing patients can lead to infection.
- Inadequate hand hygiene: Improper or infrequent handwashing can increase the risk of transferring pathogens from surfaces to the eyes.
Workplace precautions to avoid conjunctivitis
Based on data from the CDC, you can reduce the risk of developing conjunctivitis by taking these actions:
- Practice diligent hand hygiene. It’s no secret that hand hygiene prevents infection. So wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after patient care, after touching any potentially contaminated surface (such as a patient’s personal items), before eating, and prior to adjusting personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Use appropriate PPE. Wearing gloves and goggles when treating patients with suspected or confirmed conjunctivitis can prevent direct contact with infectious secretions. Ensure PPE is properly fitted and disposed of immediately after use.
- Avoid touching your face. Make a conscious effort to avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, especially while working.
- Disinfect surfaces and equipment. High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, bed rails, and medical devices should be regularly cleaned and disinfected. Always follow your facility’s cleaning protocols.
- Use artificial tears or lubricants. Dry eyes can be more susceptible to infection. Nurses working in air-conditioned environments or experiencing dry eyes can use preservative-free artificial tears to maintain eye moisture. However, if you develop an eye infection like conjunctivitis, it’s important to avoid using the same eye drop bottle in your infected and non-infected eye, according to the CDC.
- Report and isolate suspected cases. If a patient shows signs of conjunctivitis, report it promptly and follow isolation protocols as necessary. Early intervention can prevent the spread of infection to colleagues and other patients.
Prevention is key
While conjunctivitis is often mild and resolves with treatment, it can disrupt one's ability to work, particularly if the infection spreads to colleagues or patients. If one has a pre-existing condition like dry eye syndrome or a weakened immune system, conjunctivitis can lead to more severe complications.
By adopting a proactive approach, you can minimize the risk of contracting and spreading conjunctivitis, safeguarding both your health and the health of your patients.
