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MEDICAL NEWS YOU CAN USE

Wound Care - Part 7: Eye Injuries

Writer's picture: Jason TJason T

Updated: Feb 6


Wound Care for Eye injuries First Aid.

In our First Aid for Nursing Students series, we focus on eye injuries—a critical area of first aid. Since we rely on our eyes for vision, even minor injuries can have lasting consequences. As future healthcare professionals, knowing how to assess and provide immediate care for eye injuries is essential.


Remember: Eye injuries should never be taken lightly. If your vision changes, you experience pain, or you have trouble focusing, seek medical attention immediately. Any wound near the eye should be treated as an eye injury!


 

Common Causes of Eye Injuries

  • Foreign objects (dust, metal, debris) lodged in the eye.

  • Blunt trauma from impact or accidents.

  • Radiation exposure (e.g., UV rays, welding).

  • Burns/flash burns from heat, fire, or chemicals.

  • Chemical splashes from workplace or household substances.


 

How to Prevent Eye Injuries

  • Wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Safety goggles, face shields, and eye protection for high-risk activities.

  • Use proper sports protection: Wear face masks or protective eyewear during physical activities.

  • Inspect rotating tools: Loose objects can become airborne hazards.

  • Review MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets): Follow safety protocols when working with chemicals.

  • Get trained on workplace equipment: Proper usage minimizes accident risks.


 

First Aid for eye injuries.

Recognizing an Eye Injury

  • Pain or irritation in one or both eyes.

  • Redness and swelling around the eye.

  • Difficulty opening the eye.

  • Excessive tearing or watering.

  • Blurred or impaired vision.

  • Object visibly lodged in the eye.

  • Deformities or visible trauma.


 

How to Provide First Aid for Eye Injuries

Step 1: Assess the Situation

  • Ensure the scene is safe before approaching the injured person.

  • Check ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation).

  • Wear gloves if available to prevent infection and exposure to bodily fluids.


Step 2: Call 911 if Necessary

Seek emergency medical attention if:

  • A foreign object is deeply embedded in the eye.

  • There is an impaled object in or near the eye.

  • The eye has been dislodged from its socket.

  • The injury involves severe head, neck, or spine trauma.


 

Step 3: Caring for Specific Eye Injuries

Foreign Object or Substance in the Eye

  • Encourage the person to blink several times to produce tears, which may flush out the object.

  • Gently flush the eye with clean water, making sure to rinse away from the unaffected eye.

  • Do not rub the eye, as this may worsen the injury.

  • If the object remains, seek medical attention immediately to prevent further damage.


Impaled Object in the Eye

  • Do not remove the object—doing so can cause further damage.

  • Keep the injured person calm and still.

  • Stabilize the object by carefully placing bulky dressings around it, avoiding pressure on the eye.

  • Secure dressings with bandages to minimize movement.

  • Seek immediate medical attention.


Flash Burns (e.g., from Welding or UV Exposure)

  • Cover the eyes with a cool, wet cloth to relieve pain.

  • Seek medical attention to prevent long-term vision problems.


 

Why First Aid Training is Essential for Nursing Students

As future healthcare providers, nurses will encounter eye injuries in clinical settings, emergency care, and daily life. Understanding first aid for eye trauma can help prevent vision loss and provide patients with immediate relief.


Nursing student in a Basic Life Support Course.

Final Thoughts

Eye injuries can happen anywhere, from hospitals and workplaces to homes and sports fields. Knowing how to respond effectively ensures better patient outcomes and helps protect one of our most vital senses.


 

Protect Yourself, Act Fast, Save Lives

Join our First Aid and CPR Course today to build your confidence in handling real-world emergencies.


Learn First Aid Today, Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.


This material is for informational purposes only, derived from resources provided by The Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, training, or treatment. Consult your local physician or safety training facility for further guidance.


 

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RESOURCES:


 


Author Jason T

Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd

Jason T

Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor


Saving Grace Medical Academy is Located in Edmonton and Treaty 6 Territory, and within the Métis homelands and Métis Nation of Alberta Region 4. We acknowledge this land as the traditional territories of many First Nations.

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Fulton Edmonton Public School

10310 - 56 St, NW

Edmonton, AB, Canada

780-705-2525

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