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Characterization of Digital Eye Strain among Undergraduate Nursing Students at Distance Learning Center, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors
*Sani, Bello Shehu (MSc)1
Salihu, Abdulrahman Kombo (PhD)2
Dalhat, Khalid S. (PhD)1
Sani, Sani Muhammad (PhD)3
Bashir, Sadisu (MSc)4
Usman, Usman Muhammad (MSc)5
Rajah, Amina Suleiman (MSc)6
Balarabe, Ramatu (PhD)2
Abdullahi, Saadatu (MSc)1
Olakoba, Eunice Opeyemi (MSc)7
Corresponding Author: *Sani B. S, Department of Nursing Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. Email:bellosaniwase@gmail.com
ONLINE ISSN: 2645-2936
PRINT ISSN: 0795 – 6541
Editor-in-chief
Prof. (Mrs.) Ijeoma O. Ehiemere
University of Nigeria
Editorial Secretary
Dr. Goodluck I. Nshi
Aspen University, Denver, CO, U.S.A.
Assistant Editorial Secretary
Prof. Emmanuel Ejembi Anyebe
University of Ilorin, Nigeria
Institutional Affiliation(s)
1. Department of Nursing Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
2. Department of Nursing Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
3. Department of Nursing Sciences Programme, Ahmadu Bello University Distance Learning Centre, Zaria
4. Department of Nursing Sciences, Kaduna State University, Kaduna
5. Department of Nursing Sciences, Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, Bauchi State
6. Department of Nursing Sciences, Bayero University, Kano
7. Department of Nursing Sciences, National Open University of Nigeria
Citation
Sani, B.S., Salihu, A.K., Dalhat, S.K., Sani, A. M., Sani, S.M., Bashir, S., Usman, U.M., Rajah, A.S., Balarabe, R., Abdullahi, S., & Opeyemi, E.O. (2025). Characterization of digital eye strain among undergraduate nursing students at distance learning center, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. The Nursing Scope, 8(3), 72-82. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope83/72-82
Keywords
Abstract
Background: Digital eye strain (DES) is an increasing health problem linked to the extensive use of visual display terminal devices. Distance learning students are especially at risk due to prolonged screen time and limited ergonomic awareness.
Objective: This study aimed (1) to identify the most common symptoms of DES and (2) to determine the associated risk factors among Bachelor of Nursing Science students at Ahmadu Bello University Distance Learning Centre (ABU DLC), Nigeria.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 267 nursing students selected using multistage cluster sampling. Data were collected using a validated Digital Eye Strain Questionnaire administered via Google Forms. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize symptoms and device use, while inferential analysis (odds ratios at 95% confidence intervals) was performed to determine significant risk factors.
Results: The most frequently reported symptoms of DES were eye itching (69.3%), tearing (68.2%), foreign body sensation (64.4%), and increased sensitivity to light (62.9%). Longer daily device use (≥4 hours) was strongly associated with DES (OR = 6.0, 95% CI: 3.4–10.6, p < 0.001). Poor ergonomic practices, such as studying in a lying position (OR = 5.5, 95% CI: 2.4–12.6, p < 0.001) and leaning forward (OR = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.3–9.8, p = 0.013), significantly increased DES risk. Infrequent breaks (≥2 hours/no breaks) were also a strong predictor of DES (OR = 6.7, 95% CI: 3.2–13.8, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: DES is highly prevalent among ABU DLC nursing students, with symptoms largely driven by prolonged screen time and poor ergonomic practices. Interventions such as ergonomic training, structured screen-time breaks, and health education programs are recommended to mitigate DES among distance learners.
Recommendations: ABU DLC should integrate ergonomics, promote eye strain awareness, encourage healthy screen habits, and support longitudinal research to strengthen evidence and generalizability.