CT20 Management of Trauma Practice Exam

Initial eye injury management focuses on rapid cleaning of the ocular surface and protection of the eye to prevent further harm. Irrigation to flush out any chemical, dust, or debris is the most important immediate action, because it directly reduces ongoing irritation, dilutes and removes contaminants, and lowers the risk of deeper tissue injury. Following irrigation, applying a clean dressing or shield protects the eye from further trauma and contamination while you arrange definitive care.

This approach is preferred over attempting to remove embedded foreign bodies with tweezers, which can cause additional corneal or scleral damage or perforation. It’s also not wise to delay treatment until reaching the hospital, since ongoing exposure or contaminants can worsen injury. Analgesia may be given as part of care, but it does not address the urgent need to decontaminate and protect the eye.