Ophthalmic Assistant

Answer: C - Irrigate the affected eye, continually, for at least 10 to 15 minutes

A patient calling the clinic because of a chemical burn to the eye should be told to immediately irrigate the affected eye, continually, for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This is critical because the longer the eye is exposed to a chemical, the more damage it will cause to the eye. After the eye has been flushed out, the patient should seek immediate care either by coming into the clinic or by going to an emergency room. If possible, the patient should bring the bottle or label associated with the chemical in order to provide reference for the physician.