Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the first aid management of eye injuries among the general population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 659 participants from various demographic backgrounds in Riyadh. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed demographic factors, knowledge of eye injury symptoms, appropriate first-aid actions, and attitudes toward emergency care.
Results: The majority of participants (64.5%) were aged 18-29 years, with a balanced gender distribution (45.5% male, 54.5% female). A significant knowledge gap was observed, as only 23.4% of participants’ demonstrated adequate knowledge about eye injury management. Misconceptions were prevalent, with many participants incorrectly identifying symptoms and treatment practices. Most individuals correctly recognized the need for immediate care in cases of persistent eye pain (70.4%) and foreign body presence (66.5%), yet many were unsure about handling chemical injuries or when to seek emergency care. Knowledge adequacy did not significantly vary by gender, age, or educational level, although trends suggested higher knowledge among individuals with higher education.
Conclusion: The study revealed substantial gaps in knowledge regarding eye injury first aid, highlighting the need for comprehensive public health campaigns and educational interventions. Targeted efforts should focus on addressing misconceptions and promoting awareness about when to seek emergency care, particularly for chemical injuries and eye trauma. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs in improving eye injury management knowledge.

Key words: Knowledge, attitude, practice, first aid management, eye injury.