A worker splashes alkali into the eye. What is the single most important first step?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Immediate copious irrigation with water or saline
- Step 1: Alkali burns penetrate the cornea quickly and damage persists. Step 2. Irrigation is started on site before anything else, continues until the pH is neutral, and is followed by ophthalmic assessment. Answer: Immediate copious irrigation with water or saline. Why not the others: Patching delays treatment. Antibiotic ointment is irrelevant at this point. Testing visual acuity is done after irrigation.
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