Ophthalmic Injuries

Section 6 - TRAUMA

6.09 OPHTHALMIC INJURIES

INITIAL TRAUMA CARE, (2.02).

CHEMICAL:

• Quickly assess gross visual acuity.
• After obtaining a thorough history to rule out a penetrating injury, Pontocaine Ophthalmic may be utilized to anethetisize the eye.
  • (Adults and Children: 1-2 gtt per affected eye)
• Thoroughly irrigate affected eye(s) using continuous NaCl irrigation through IV tubing and / or Nasal Cannula. Start irrigation as soon as possible and continue while en route to hospital.

PENETRATING:

• DO NOT remove impaled object.
• Protect injury by applying eye shield and bandage over eye(s) avoiding any pressure onto eye itself.
• Patch other eye.
• Keep patient from bending or straining.
• DO NOT USE PONTOCAINE IN PENETRATING EYE INJURIES!

BLUNT TRAUMA:

• If blood noted in anterior chamber, (hyphema), transport with head elevated at least 60 degrees.
• Dim lights to patient comfort.
• Apply eye shield if needed.