b'Chapter hapterChemical Burn to the EyesChemical splashes in the eye can result in serious injury if not treated quickly. Any damage to the surface of the eye (cornea) may result in deep scarring and potential blindness.How to RecogniseImmediate, intense pain in the eye or both eyes.The patient is unable to open the injured eye due to spasm.Redness, swelling around the eye with extensive watering.Anxiety, restlessness and agitated state.How to ManageGently flush the effected eye(s) thoroughly with cool running water for as long as tolerated. (Itmay be necessary to carefully prize the eyelids open). The flushing of the eye(s) is more important than immediate transfer for medical care.Continue to gently flush effected eye(s) for minimum 20-30 minutes.Be careful that any irritant is not washed into the uninjured eye.Contact lenses may be removed by the patient if necessary.Lightly apply a sterile pad or non-adherent dressing over the affected eye.Reassure and comfort the patient.Call Ambulance 000.Flash Burn to the EyesWelders flash is very painful, usually affecting both eyes. The cornea may be damaged due to exposure to ultra-violet light. The condition is sometimes referred to as welders flash or arc eye.How to RecogniseAfter exposure, the symptoms may often take a few hours to appear.Intense pain along with redness and extensive watering of the eyes. The patient often complains of a gritty sensation like sand in the eyes. Extreme sensitivity to light. Restless and sometimes agitated.How to ManageContact lenses may be removed by the patient if necessary.Apply soft cool wet packs to the eyes to help soothe the pain.Reassure and comfort the patient.Arrange for medical assistance.Burns and Scalds 127'