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Chemical eye injury — first response 🚨 👁️
Chemical eye injury — first response 🚨 👁️
Alkali and acid exposures can damage the corneal epithelium, limbus and deeper ocular structures; the extent of injury worsens while the chemical remains in contact.
🔎 Recognise
Ask what chemical, when exposure occurred and whether vision, pain or the eyelids have changed. Bilateral exposure, intense pain or reduced acuity should heighten concern.
🛟 First actions
Begin continuous copious eye irrigation immediately with available clean water or saline; do not delay for visual acuity measurement, a drug chart or referral. Protect the unaffected eye, remove contact lenses if possible and call emergency ophthalmology.
🧪 Investigations and reassessment
Document visual acuity when feasible, record the chemical/container and check ocular pH repeatedly using the local eye-chemical protocol. Assess for retained particles by specialist lid eversion after initial irrigation.
⚠️ Common pitfalls and escalation
Do not neutralise an alkali with acid (or vice versa). A comfortable patient after irrigation can still have a serious corneal or limbal injury requiring same-day specialist assessment.
UK reference: NHS eye injuries. Focused editorial source check, 7 November 2026; this is not independent clinical or pharmacy sign-off. Verify current local policy, BNF/BNFC and specialist advice before treatment. Not a prescribing protocol.
Related guides: Red or painful eye — FY quick guide ⚠️ 🚑 · Eye pain/discomfort ✅
| The content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only to support exam preparation (e.g., MLA, MRCP, USMLE) and learning. This is NOT medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional guidance. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, official guidelines (e.g., NICE, GMC, BNF), or supervised clinical practice. Always verify information with current, authoritative sources. Makindo and its contributors accept no liability for any reliance on this content, including errors, omissions, or any resulting harm, loss, or consequences. By using this site, you agree to these terms. |
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