First Aid & Emergencies

Chemical Eye Burn Treatment

1. Flush the Eye

• Have the person put the eye or eyes under a faucet, shower, or clean container of water.

• Flush with lukewarm water for 15 to 30 minutes. The person should keep the eye open as wide as possible.

• Flush the eye to remove contact lenses. Do not try to remove them with hands.

• Do not place a bandage over the eye.

2. Get Help Immediately

• Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222or the emergency number on the container if you have it.

• Poison control will advise at-home treatment and may recommend seeing a health care provider.

3. Follow Up

• If you seek medical care, the health care provider will continue flushing the eye with saline solution, checking periodically until pH is normal.

• The health care provider may place anesthetic drugs in the eye to decrease discomfort with flushing.