Date of last review: Due to be updated

Differential diagnosis

  • Non-penetrating (blunt) trauma
  • Chemical trauma 

Possible management by Optometrist

Treatment

  • Do not touch eye
  • Check VA (important even if pain and swollen lids make that difficult)
  • Topical anaesthetic (to aid examination)
  • Protect eye by taping over it a rigid plastic shield

Advice

  • Advise patient not to touch the eye and try not to cough or strain
  • Advise patient to take nil by mouth
    • To assist swallowing of tablets, a small amount of water is permissible

Management Category

  • Immediate referral

Possible management by Ophthalmologist

  • Surgical management of penetrating injury