Knowing what to do for an eye emergency can save valuable time and possibly prevent vision loss. Here are some instructions for basic eye injury first aid.
Be Prepared
- Wear eye protection for all hazardous activities and sports-at school, home, and on the job.
- Stock a first aid kit with a rigid eye shield and commercial eyewash before an eye injury happens.
- DO NOT assume that any eye injury is harmless. When in doubt, see a doctor immediately.
Chemical Burns to the Eye
In all cases of eye contact with chemicals:
- Immediately flush the eye with water or any other drinkable liquid. Hold the eye under a faucet or shower, or pour water into the eye using a clean container. Keep the eye open and as wide as possible while flushing. Continue flushing for at least 15 minutes.
- DO NOT use an eyecup.
- If a contact lens is in the eye, begin flushing over the lens immediately. This may wash away the lens.
- DO NOT bandage the eye.
- Seek immediate medical treatment after flushing.
Specks in the Eye
- DO NOT rub the eye
- Try to let tears wash the speck out or use an eyewash.
- Try lifting the upper eyelid outward and down over the lower lid.
- If the speck does not wash out, keep the eye closed, bandage it lightly, and see a doctor.
Blows to the Eye
- Apply a cold compress without putting pressure on the eye. Crushed ice in a plastic bag can be taped to the forehead to rest gently on the injured eye.
- In cases of pain, reduced vision, or discoloration (black eye), seek emergency medical care. Any of these symptoms could mean internal eye damage.
Cuts and Punctures of the Eye or Eyelid
- DO NOT wash out the eye with water or any other liquid.
- DO NOT try to remove an object that is stuck in the eye.
- Cover the eye with a rigid shield without applying pressure. The bottom half of a paper cup can be used.
- See a doctor at once.
For more information on eye safety, email us at info@preventblindness.org, contact us online, or call 1-800-331-2020.
Copyright © 2005 Prevent Blindness America ®
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