Eye first aid
OHSU
First aid for cuts in or around the eye
- Bandage the eye gently
- Do not rub the eye or apply pressure
- Do not try to remove any particles
- Do not wash out the eye
First aid when foreign particles enter the eye
- Pull the upper lid down onto lower lid and let lower eyelashes sweep away the particle by blinking repeatedly
- Let tears wash out the speck or particle, or use an eye wash
- Close your eye and seek medical attention immediately if the above procedure does not work
- Do not rub the eye
First aid for chemical splashes
- Use fingers to separate lids, then flush the eye with water from a faucet or clean container
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Do not cover the eye
First aid for physical trauma to the eye:
- Gently apply small cold compresses without pressure immediately to reduce pain and swelling
- Contact your ophthalmologist or primary care physician immediately