What is the initial action recommended for chemical burns?

What is the initial action recommended for chemical burns?

• A. Irrigation for 15 minutes
• B. Lid eversion only
• C. Topical antibiotics only
• D. Observation without treatment

Answer: (A)

Immediate irrigation of the eye for at least 15 minutes is the first and most important step in managing a chemical burn. The goal is to rapidly dilute and wash away the offending chemical so it stops continuing to damage the ocular surface. Use clean water or saline and keep flushing until the surface pH is near neutral (around 7.0–7.4). Remove any contact lens if present during irrigation, then proceed with pH testing and further treatment as needed. Topical antibiotics or observation alone do not address the ongoing chemical injury, so irrigation is essential before other therapies.

Immediate irrigation of the eye for at least 15 minutes is the first and most important step in managing a chemical burn. The goal is to rapidly dilute and wash away the offending chemical so it stops continuing to damage the ocular surface. Use clean water or saline and keep flushing until the surface pH is near neutral (around 7.0–7.4). Remove any contact lens if present during irrigation, then proceed with pH testing and further treatment as needed. Topical antibiotics or observation alone do not address the ongoing chemical injury, so irrigation is essential before other therapies.