Acid-Related Eye Injuries: What You Need to Know

In the event of a chemical eye injury, the initial focus must be on flushing out the harmful substances. There's no need for fancy equipment or specific solutions right away—immediate irrigation with clean, non-toxic liquids such as tap water is crucial. Ideally, you should use a continuous stream of water and keep your eyelids open to thoroughly rinse out the chemical. Continue flushing the eye for at least 10 minutes, and if possible, until professional medical help is received.

• Position the head upright, tilting it so that the affected eye is lower, which allows the water to carry the chemicals away from the unaffected eye.
• If there’s access to it, use a saline eye-wash station or solution, but don’t delay irrigation to obtain these if they are not immediately available.
• Remove contact lenses if possible, as they can trap chemicals against the eye surface.
• Avoid rubbing the eyes while flushing them, as this can cause further damage.

If you’re assisting someone, ensure that your hands are washed with soap and water before starting the flushing process to avoid contamination with irritants like alcohol-based sanitizers.

As bystanders, whether you're a friend, family member, or off-duty healthcare professional, your role in the initial management of a chemical burn to the eye can significantly impact the patient's recovery. Safeguarding yourself is crucial before assisting; ensure the scene is safe from further chemical exposure. The immediate aim is to start flushing the eye.

• Irrigate the affected eye continuously with any available non-toxic fluid, prioritizing the flushing over any other measures.
• Be cautious and avoid flushing with solutions that could cause further irritation, like alcohol or vinegar which could exacerbate the condition.
• Monitor the patient for severe pain, irritation, or other symptoms indicating the need for professional medical assistance.

First responders, including EMS personnel, should continue the irrigation initiated by bystanders during the transport to an emergency facility. If available, use sterile saline or Lactated Ringer’s solution, as these are isotonic to the eye and may be more soothing than tap water. The Morgan Lens or similar equipment can facilitate ongoing irrigation, ensuring that any remaining chemical substances are continuously flushed out during transport.

It's vital to prioritize irrigation over total ocular assessment initially, as retaining the chemical for too long can cause irreversible damage. Proper documentation of the chemical exposure, including the type of chemical and time of exposure, can be helpful for medical professionals in continuing care effectively upon arrival at the hospital.

By keeping these steps in mind, both laypeople and first responders can play an essential role in preserving vision and mitigating more serious consequences of chemical eye burns. Always seek further medical evaluation at a healthcare facility following exposure, as professional intervention is necessary to ensure comprehensive care and prognosis.