What is the minimal recommended time to irrigate eyes?

The minimal recommended time to irrigate eyes is 20 minutes. This duration is crucial in cases of chemical exposure or contamination, as it allows for the thorough removal of harmful substances that can cause serious injury to the ocular surface. Prolonged irrigation helps dilute and flush out the irritant, reducing the risk of tissue damage and associated complications.

Chemical agents can vary in their effects and can cause severe harm if not adequately removed. The 20-minute guideline is based on evidence showing that this amount of time significantly improves the outcomes following eye exposure, compared to shorter duration irrigations which may not fully clear the irritant. Additional time might be necessary depending on the substance involved and the severity of exposure, so following this guideline ensures a more comprehensive irrigation process for affected individuals.