Difficulties patients have at home after cataract surgery.

Twenty patients were interviewed to investigate their ability to manage eye-care and daily-living routines at home following uncomplicated unilateral cataract extraction without implantation of an artificial lens. A high degree of compliance with the recommendations of health care professionals was reported; however, difficulties were incurred in obtaining medications, reading labels, instilling eyedrops, applying the eye shield and providing a safe environment. Performance of daily-living routines presented no problems if help with shopping and heavy household tasks was available in the first few weeks postoperatively. Factors that the patients identified as increasing their ability to manage at home with confidence and competence are described, and implications for patient teaching and discharge planning are discussed.