What to do if someone suffers eye injury (chemical splash or object)?

Eye injuries — whether from a chemical splash or a foreign object — can threaten vision and must be treated as urgent medical emergencies. The steps differ depending on the cause.

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1. General first steps for all eye injuries

• Call emergency services immediately if the injury is severe.

• Do not let the person rub the eye — this can worsen damage.

• Do not apply pressure directly to the injured eye.

• Keep the person calm and still.

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2. Chemical splash in the eye

Chemicals (cleaners, acids, alkalis, etc.) can cause rapid, severe damage.

What to do:

1. Flush immediately with clean, lukewarm water or saline.

   • Hold the eyelids open.

   • Rinse continuously for at least 15–20 minutes.

   • Roll the eye in all directions while flushing.

2. Remove contact lenses if present and possible, while rinsing.

3. Protect the uninjured eye from contamination.

4. Seek emergency medical care immediately — even if pain improves after flushing.

Do NOT:

• Do not use neutralizing agents (like vinegar for alkali) — water only.

• Do not delay rinsing to look up chemical details. Immediate flushing is critical.

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3. Foreign object in the eye (dust, wood, glass, metal, etc.)

If it’s a small particle (dust, eyelash):

1. Ask the person to blink several times to see if it clears.

2. If not, flush with clean water or saline.

3. If still stuck and visible, gently lift the upper lid over the lower lid to encourage tears to wash it out.

If it’s a large/embedded object:

1. Do not attempt to remove it.

2. Stabilize the object — place a clean, bulky dressing (like gauze) around the object to prevent movement.

3. Cover both eyes (to reduce eye movement) and keep the person still.

4. Get immediate emergency medical help.

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4. Blunt trauma (blow to the eye)

• Apply a cold pack (wrapped in cloth, not directly on the eye) to reduce swelling.

• Seek medical evaluation to rule out internal damage or fractures.

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5. While waiting for help

• Keep the person sitting upright if possible (reduces pressure in the eye).

• Reassure them and discourage rubbing or touching the injured eye.

• Monitor for severe pain, vision loss, bleeding, or signs of shock.