Which action is correct when protecting a casualty with eye injury?

Which action is correct when protecting a casualty with eye injury?

• A. Avoid manipulating or causing further trauma to the eye.
• B. Apply ointment directly to the eye.
• C. Apply direct pressure to the eyeball.
• D. Remove any foreign object immediately without irrigation.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is to prevent any further trauma to the eye. The eye is extremely fragile, and handling, rubbing, or applying pressure can worsen a corneal abrasion, dislodge a foreign body, or increase intraocular pressure. The safest immediate action is to keep the eye still and protect it with a sterile shield or nonadherent dressing, avoiding any contact with the eyeball itself. This preserves the eye’s structure and reduces pain while medical care is arranged. Ongoing first aid should avoid putting ointment directly on the eye in the field, as it can irritate or contaminate the surface. Do not apply direct pressure to the eyeball, since that can cause more injury. Do not attempt to remove a foreign object immediately without proper assessment and technique, because improper removal can cause further damage; allow trained personnel to evaluate and manage the object, including appropriate irrigation if indicated.

The key idea is to prevent any further trauma to the eye. The eye is extremely fragile, and handling, rubbing, or applying pressure can worsen a corneal abrasion, dislodge a foreign body, or increase intraocular pressure. The safest immediate action is to keep the eye still and protect it with a sterile shield or nonadherent dressing, avoiding any contact with the eyeball itself. This preserves the eye’s structure and reduces pain while medical care is arranged.

Ongoing first aid should avoid putting ointment directly on the eye in the field, as it can irritate or contaminate the surface. Do not apply direct pressure to the eyeball, since that can cause more injury. Do not attempt to remove a foreign object immediately without proper assessment and technique, because improper removal can cause further damage; allow trained personnel to evaluate and manage the object, including appropriate irrigation if indicated.