How should chemical burns to the eye be treated?

The treatment for chemical burns to the eye prioritizes immediate and thorough irrigation. This is crucial because chemical substances can cause severe and potentially irreversible damage to the delicate tissues in the eye. The goal of irrigation is to dilute and remove the chemical agent as quickly as possible, minimizing its harmful effects.

Flush the affected eye with copious amounts of water or saline, ideally for at least 15-20 minutes, while the individual keeps their eyes open. This action helps to wash out the chemical, providing a critical first response in order to prevent further injury and preserve vision.

In contrast, applying a dry dressing, using topical antibiotics, or covering the eye with an eye patch are not appropriate initial responses for chemical burns. These methods do not address the need for immediate decontamination and could exacerbate the injury by trapping harmful substances in or around the eye.