Eye Injuries
Table of Contents
General Care
Eye injuries can worsen with pressure or rubbing. Reassure the casualty, avoid touching the eye and arrange medical care when vision, pain or penetration is involved.
Chemical Exposure
Flush the affected eye immediately with clean running water or saline. Hold the eyelids open if possible and keep flushing for a long time, especially for strong chemicals.
Foreign Bodies and Penetrating Injury
| Situation | First Aid |
|---|---|
| Loose surface particle | Rinse gently with clean water or saline |
| Embedded object | Do not remove; stabilise and seek urgent help |
| Penetrating injury | Cover both eyes lightly and call 000 |
Covering Both Eyes
Covering both eyes helps reduce eye movement. Use light dressings and avoid pressure on the injured eye.
When to Call 000
Call 000 for penetrating injury, chemical burns, severe pain, sudden vision loss, or injury associated with major trauma.