OBJECTIVE: To analyze the efficacy of a virtual guide with a view to promoting eye health. METHODS: Cross-sectional study carried out with 130 HIV/AIDS patients from an ambulatory unit between May and August/2010. The data was collected through interviews and observation, using three forms that addressed the socioeconomic profile, understanding and performing the virtual guide eye self-examination. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, χ² and Fisher-Freeman-Halton tests. It was considered statistically significant p <0.05. RESULTS: The virtual guide was positively evaluated in the categories of understanding and adequacy of text illustrations. There was statistically significant difference between the tests performed with this virtual guide (p=0.036). Comparing the results obtained by participants and researchers, we observed similarities in the findings (p>0.140), excepting only the evaluation of the right eyelid. CONCLUSION: The virtual guide helped developing proper eye self-exam, enabling people to notice alterations in their eyes.
Evaluation studies; Education technology; Health promotion; HIV infections; Eye health
