Original Article May 06, 2026 May 06, 2026

Eye health of neonates: knowledge and nursing contributions to red reflex testing

DOI: 10.37039/1982.8551.20260040

ABSTRACT

Objective:

To assess the knowledge and practice of nurses regarding the Red Reflex Test (RRT).

Methods:

A cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was conducted with professional nurses in São Luís, Maranhão, between October 15, 2023, and January 15, 2024. A questionnaire was applied, including sociodemographic variables and an assessment of knowledge and practice related to the RRT. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with STATA 14.0.

Results:

A total of 49 nurses working in healthcare assistance participated in the study, of whom 91.84% knew about the test, but only 73.47% were aware of how it is performed. The participants demonstrated low implementation of the test, with only 24.49% having ever performed the RRT. Most nurses (61%) did not receive training on the test during their undergraduate studies, and 54.17% reported the absence of protocols for its execution in their affiliated institutions.

Conclusion:

Although nurses are aware of the importance of the test, most have not been trained to perform it and do not include it in their professional practice. This highlights the need for public policies that promote continuous education and the standardization of protocols to ensure the effectiveness of neonatal screening and the RRT.