UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
Indications
Ocular injury due to foreign bodies and chemicals has the ability to cause ongoing discomfort and permanent injury to the eye. Flushing with water for a suitable period of time has the ability to reduce or eliminate further injury and damage.
Foreign body irritant due to:
- Dust
- Smoke particles
- Other foreign bodies that are on the surface of the eye
Ocular injury due to:
- Acid or solvent burns
- Gasoline
- Detergents
- Alkali burns
- Chemical splashes
Oleoresin Capsaicum(OC) spray
Contraindications
- Penetrating eye injuries
- Suspected or actual rupture of the globe
Patient Factors & Considerations
- Only use NaCl 0.9% or clean, potable water
- Water should be tepid. Water too cold or hot could cause further damage to the eye and surrounding fluid.
- Minimise the application pressure. This should be enough to gently shower and flood the eye. Avoid high pressure at all times.
Procedure
- Locate the eye wash station
- Twist the irrigator clockwise to open the saline bottle
- Remove the dust cap on te applicator
- The head should be pointed downwards to assist with drainage and avoid spent fluid entering the bottle
- Hold the eye(s) open with the fingers
- Begin to flush the eyes
- Have the patient gently roll their eyes from left to right and up and down to be sure that all areas of the eyes are flushed
In the event of a chemical injury:
- flush for a full 15 minutes to allow appropriate dilution and clearance.
In the event of ongoing discomfort or injury:
- The patient should be referred to a specialist physician for follow up.
Success
Success
Discontinue
Discontinue
Additional Information
Additional information
References
References
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Document Control
Directorate
Clinical Services
Responsible Manager
Head of Clinical Services
Published Date
Review Date
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