If a chemical splashes into the eye, what is the recommended action?

If a chemical splashes into the eye, what is the recommended action?

• A. Rinse the eye with clean water for at least 15 minutes
• B. Blink rapidly
• C. Rub the eye to ease irritation
• D. Apply ointment

Answer: (A)

When a chemical gets into the eye, the priority is to dilute and remove it through rapid irrigation. Rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes to flush the chemical away and protect the eye from ongoing irritation. Use a steady stream from a faucet or eyewash, keep the eye open, and gently wash all surfaces, directing water from the inner corner toward the outer corner. If a contact lens is in place and it can be removed safely during irrigation, take it out. Do not rub the eye and do not apply ointment at this stage. After flushing, seek medical evaluation, especially if there’s persistent pain, vision changes, or if the exposure was strong. On a plane, use available onboard water or bottled water to continue rinsing until medical help can be reached.

When a chemical gets into the eye, the priority is to dilute and remove it through rapid irrigation. Rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes to flush the chemical away and protect the eye from ongoing irritation. Use a steady stream from a faucet or eyewash, keep the eye open, and gently wash all surfaces, directing water from the inner corner toward the outer corner. If a contact lens is in place and it can be removed safely during irrigation, take it out. Do not rub the eye and do not apply ointment at this stage. After flushing, seek medical evaluation, especially if there’s persistent pain, vision changes, or if the exposure was strong. On a plane, use available onboard water or bottled water to continue rinsing until medical help can be reached.