Take a Class Resources Learn First Aid Eye Injury
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  • Eye Injury

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    Emergency Steps

    1

    Check the scene safety, form an initial impression, obtain consent and put on PPE, as appropriate.

    2

    Check for signs and symptoms.

    • Blurred vision*
    • Loss of vision*
    • Bleeding in eye*
    • Chemical or object in eye*
    • Continued pain in eye*
    • Burning, pain or irritation in eye
    • Bruising or swelling around eye
    • Excess tearing or frequent blinking

    *Note: Signs and symptoms with a * require immediate emergency medical treatment.

    3

    Call 9-1-1 and get equipment if the person requires immediate emergency medical treatment.

    4

    Give Care.

    General Care

    1. Give care for condition found and your level of training.
    2. For chemical splash, flush the eye with water until EMS arrives and begins care.
      1. Keep their head tilted so affected eye is lower than the unaffected eye when flushing.
    3. For an imbedded object/splinter, seek immediate medical care.
    4. Continue checking them as appropriate to determine if additional care is needed.
    5. Keep person from getting cold or overheated.
    6. Position the person as appropriate.
    7. Reassure person you will help and that EMS has been called (if appropriate).
    8. Watch for changes in condition, including breathing and responsiveness, and give care as appropriate and trained.

    Eye Injury FAQs

    I know that protective eyewear is the best way to prevent eye injury. What other strategies can help to reduce the risk for any type of injury?

    • Think and act with safety in mind.
    • Be aware of your environment and surroundings.
    • Read and follow instructions and safety guidelines.
    • Use safety equipment that is available to you (helmets and protective eyewear), including personal protective equipment.

    Help Save Lives with an American Red Cross Class

    More than 4.6M people turn to us, the trusted training provider for First Aid, CPR, BLS and more, every year to gain lifesaving skills. Trust us to deliver unmatched lifesaving training that will provide you the confidence and skills to act when moments matter. Training Services is a division of the American Red Cross with the mission to spread knowledge and educate as many members of the national community in lifesaving procedures. Our services include training courses for CPR and AED, First Aid, BLS (Basic Life Support), Babysitting, Caregiving, Lifeguarding Water Safety, and more.

    Information Provided the Scientific Advisory Council (SAC)

    Behind every American Red Cross training program stands the Scientific Advisory Council - a team of experts dedicated to ensuring that what you learn is based on the latest and best emergency science. Visit redcross.org/take-a-class/scientific-advisory-council to see how we work, members, sub councils, scientific reviews, and recent research.

    Download the FREE Red Cross First Aid App

    The free First Aid mobile app by the American Red Cross puts expert advice for common emergencies in the palm of your hand—from the latest First Aid and CPR techniques to the nearest hospital location. Stay up to date on your lifesaving skills. iOS App, Google Play, or text "GETFIRST" to 90999.

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