PROTOCOL FOR EYE TRAUMA

Version May 20, 2022

Absolute rules

Never remove a foreign body penetrating the eye
Never apply pressure to an eye dressing
Always suspect cervical trauma — immobilize at all times
Prevent the victim from rubbing their eyes
Avoid contaminating the uninjured eye

🦺 Cervical trauma — SuspectMaintain cervical spine stabilization at all times during any eye manipulation.

💧 Moist dressing — Eyelid cannot closeA moist dressing must be used when it is impossible to close the eyelid.

🧪 Chemical burn — InformationObtain information on the type of hazardous substance, the quantity, and duration of exposure. Call the Poison Control Center: 1-800-463-5060 if in doubt.

⚠ Contamination — SafetyEnsure there is no risk of contamination for the rescuer. If there is a risk: contact authorities and assist verbally.

👓 Contact lensesRemove contact lenses if possible before any flushing or dressing.

📊 Continuous reassessmentReassess vital signs (ABC) and neurological status frequently until emergency services arrive.

TYPE OF EYE TRAUMA

🔴 Foreign body
Penetrating

👁 Foreign body
Non-penetrating

🩺 Eye injury

🔥 Chemical burn
or thermal

🚫 Never remove
a penetrating foreign body

Leave the object in place

🩹 Moist compresses
around the foreign body

📦 Cover the object
to stabilize it
Prevent any movement

🏆 Protect with a shield
or a cup
Without pressing on the eye

👁 Cover the uninjured eye
dry dressing
Prevent sympathetic movement

👓 Remove contact lenses
if possible

🚫 Prevent the victim
from rubbing their eyes

💧 Flush the eye until the foreign body
is evacuated
⏱ About 15 minutes

After 15 min of flushing:
close the eyelid
+ moist dressing over the eye

👓 Remove contact lenses
if possible

🚫 Prevent the victim
from rubbing their eyes

Close the eyelid
+ moist dressing
on the injured eye
(moist dressing if eyelid cannot close)

🏆 Protect with a shield
or a cup
Without pressing on the eye

👁 Cover the uninjured eye
dry dressing

👓 Remove contact lenses
if possible

🚫 Prevent the victim
from rubbing their eyes

📞 If chemical burn:
Poison Control Center
1-800-463-5060

🚿 Flush the injured eye
with plenty of water
⏱ Until emergency services arrive

⚠ Avoid contaminating
the uninjured eye during flushing

In all cases — Common actions

🌡 Cover the victim
warm / aluminum blanket

📊 Reassess
vital signs (ABC)

📞 Hospital
via 911