Perceptions of clients with eye problems before cataract surgery at a public hospital in Sedibeng district, Gauteng Province

Abstract

Despite efforts to convince patients to undergo cataract surgery, over 50 million people are blind and at least 135 million people worldwide have significant vision impairments, with cataracts accounting for 51% of these instances. Individuals with cataracts are reluctant to undergo surgery, which is why the purpose of the study is to explore and describe the perceptions of clients with eye problems before cataract surgery at a public hospital in Sedibeng district, Gauteng Province. A qualitative descriptive phenomenological was used in this study. The purposive sampling method was used to select participants who met the inclusion criteria. The researcher collected data employing semi-structured, face-to-face individual interviews. Data was collected until saturation was reached with n=15 participants. An audio tape recorder was used with the permission of the participants for the accurate collection of data. Data analysis was done utilising Colaizzi’s seven-step analysis of the open coding analysis framework. Trustworthiness was enhanced by using credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Ethical standards were ensured by adhering to the principle of respect for persons, the principle of beneficence, and the principle of justice. Five (5) themes emerged from the study's findings, notably; clients' positive perceptions regarding cataract surgery; clients’ understanding surrounding cataract surgery; perceived hurdles that are thought to exist surrounding cataract surgery; perceived loss of independence; and perceived coping techniques related to cataracts. Findings were conceptualized within the relevant literature. To eliminate cataracts the study recommended policy formulation, and knowledge reinforcement on cataract surgery through education, awareness and support.