Eye protection for newborns under phototherapy: comparison between a modified headbox and the conventional eyepatches

Abstract

In a randomized trial comparing a modified oxygen headbox with conventional eye patches for protecting the eyes of newborn infants undergoing phototherapy, the use of the headbox did not interfere with phototherapy treatment and was preferred by the nursing staff, as shown by an opinion survey. This, plus our previously reported finding that the headbox was associated with less eye infection, less periorbital skin irritation and less accidental exposure of the eyes due to displacement of the protective devices, suggests that the headbox provides a convenient and inexpensive alternative method of eye protection. The device may be particularly useful in busy and under-staffed neonatal units where vigilant eye care of infants undergoing phototherapy may be difficult.