Eye Injuries

Injuries to the eyes are always dangerous due to the sensitivity of the structures. If there is any question as to the severity of contamination or injury then the patient will need to be examined at the nearest A&E department

Eye injuries can involve:

Chemical contamination - this could be a direct splash or indirect from chemicals rubbed into eyes from contaminated hands.
Embedded object e.g. rust, sand or something bigger
Other trauma such as a blow to the eye from a punch or kick

Signs and Symptoms

Pain or burning
Red eyes
Swollen eyelids
Eyes watering
Light sensitivity
Double vision
Sight loss
Blood from eyes
Bruising around eyes

Management

GO DR SHAVPU ACBC

Chemical Injury:

Flush eye with copious amounts of water. The injured eye should be at a lower point to prevent contamination of good eye. 15-20 minutes at least
If patient wears contact lenses ask them to remove if possible as chemical could be under lens and not get washed out.
If at all possible take a sample of chemical to hospital so identification can take place.
Cover both eyes with gauze. This is to prevent both eyes moving as patient will be in darkness and not have any need to be looking around

Embedded Object or other Trauma:

Do not remove embedded object
If a minor object e.g. sand or eye lash consider flushing with saline. Using the same process as above
Cover both eyes to prevent eye movement
Do not apply direct pressure to injured eye
Consider a cool/ice pack to reduce swelling in the event of a kick/punch

Secondary Survey

ASHICE (Consider)

Transport to Hospital Consider a specialist eye hospital

Professional Handover