First Aid for Chemical Burns to the Eye - buff.ly/1BZmFh1 Corrosive chemicals can cause permanent damage to the sensitive tissue of the eyes. When exposed to chemical burns to the eye, the casualty experiences great pain and a sensitivity to light. 1. Scene Survey – Check the scene for danger. Shout for help and recruit bystanders. Determine the mechanism of injury. If a head or spinal injury is suspected, tell the casualty not to move. 2. Check for Responsiveness – Determine level of consciousness. If the casualty is conscious, identify yourself and get consent to offer help. 3. Call EMS/911 if Needed – Call for medical help if the burn is serious or if the casualty is unconscious. See above for when to call EMS/911 for burns. 4. Primary Survey – Check airway, breathing and circulation (ABCs). Do a rapid body check and treat for any life-threatening emergencies. 5. Ongoing Casualty Car a) If the chemical is dry, brush it off the area with a dry cloth. Use large amounts of water to flush out the chemical. Do this for at least 15 minutes. If only one eye has been affected, protect the uninjured eye and position the casualty’s head so that the chemical does not come into contact with the uninjured eye during flushing. If the casualty has trouble opening the eye, use your fingers to gently open it.. b) Use clean, sterile dressings to cover the affected eye. Do not cover both eyes because the temporary loss of all vision will only add to the casualty’s anxiety. If both eyes are injured, cover only the more seriously injured eye. c) If possible, identify the substance and send a copy of the material safety data sheet (MSDS) with the casualty to medical care.
Posted on: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 19:35:05 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015