Eye Injury Response: A Guide for First Aiders

/ Delta Emergency Support Training/

Man’s dark brown eye with a broken blood vessle staining the white of his eye.

In this edition of our first aid blog, we sharpen our focus on a critical aspect of emergency medical response – effectively addressing eye injuries. The eyes, being a vital sensory organ, demand swift and informed action from those trained in advanced first aid. Your knowledge and intervention can make a substantial difference in preserving vision and mitigating further harm. Join us as we navigate through the common types of eye injuries, their origins, and the indispensable steps to be taken in the event of a medical emergency.

Foreign Objects in the Eye

Causes

Foreign objects such as small debris, dust, sand, wood chips, or metal particles can easily enter the eyes during various activities. Working in construction, gardening, or simply being outdoors on a windy day increases the risk of encountering these particles.

Response: If a foreign object enters the eye

  • Do not rub the eye: Rubbing can potentially cause corneal abrasions or embed the foreign object further.

  • Blink repeatedly: Natural blinking can help stimulate tears, aiding in the removal of small particles.

  • Flush the eye with water: Use a sterile saline solution or clean, lukewarm water to rinse the eye gently. Tilting your head to the side can help prevent contamination of the unaffected eye.

Additional Tips

  • If the foreign object persists or the pain continues, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Seek professional medical help promptly.

  • Wearing protective eyewear during activities with a high risk of eye injury can significantly reduce the chances of foreign objects entering the eyes.

Chemical Burns

Causes:

Chemical burns to the eyes can occur from exposure to household cleaning products, industrial chemicals, or contact with substances like bleach or acids.

Response: If a chemical comes into contact with the eyes

  • Flush the eye immediately: Begin rinsing the affected eye with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. Use a gentle stream to avoid splashing.

  • Hold the eyelids open: This ensures thorough flushing, helping to remove the chemical from all parts of the eye.

  • Seek immediate medical attention: Even if symptoms appear to improve during the rinsing process, professional evaluation is crucial to prevent potential long-term damage.

Additional Tips

  • Know the location of emergency eyewash stations in workplaces where exposure to chemicals is possible.

  • When handling chemicals, always wear appropriate protective eyewear to minimize the risk of accidental splashes or spills.

Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

Causes

A subconjunctival hemorrhage, often referred to as a broken blood vessel in the eye, manifests as a bright red patch on the sclera. This condition may result from various factors, such as eye trauma, a sudden increase in pressure, or underlying medical conditions.

Response

  • Stay calm: While alarming in appearance, a subconjunctival hemorrhage is typically painless and harmless.

  • Avoid rubbing the eye: To prevent further irritation or damage.

  • Monitor for changes: While spontaneous, if the subconjunctival hemorrhage is recurrent or accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice.

Blows to the Eye

Causes

Blows to the eye can result from accidents, falls, or injuries sustained during sports activities.

Response: If a person experiences a blow to the eye

  • Apply a cold compress: Use a clean cloth or ice pack wrapped in a thin towel to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.

  • Avoid placing pressure: Refrain from pressing on the eye directly; instead, gently apply the compress around the eye.

  • Seek medical attention: If there is significant swelling, double vision, or changes in vision, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Additional Tips

  • Use protective eyewear during sports or activities with an increased risk of eye injuries, such as racquet sports, paintball, or construction work.

  • Regular eye check-ups can help identify underlying issues that may increase the susceptibility to eye injuries.

Corneal Abrasions

Causes

Corneal abrasions result from scratches on the cornea, often caused by foreign objects like fingernails, contact lenses, or airborne particles.

Response: When dealing with a corneal abrasion

  • Avoid rubbing the eye: Rubbing may exacerbate the abrasion and hinder the healing process.

  • Keep the eye closed: This protects the eye from further irritation and reduces the chance of infection.

  • Seek medical attention: Even seemingly minor abrasions can lead to infections or other complications, making it crucial to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.

Additional Tips

  • If you wear contact lenses, follow proper hygiene practices, and avoid wearing lenses when your eyes are irritated or red.

  • Protective eyewear, such as safety glasses or goggles, can provide an additional layer of defense against potential corneal abrasions in various situations.

Conclusion

Eye injuries require immediate attention and proper care. Understanding the specific responses to different types of injuries is crucial for preserving vision and preventing long-term complications. Remember, early intervention and seeking professional medical help when needed are key components of effective eye injury first aid. By staying informed and taking preventive measures, you can play a pivotal role in protecting your vision and that of others. Stay safe, stay informed, and safeguard your vision.