Eye, Ear, and Nose Injuries
Lesson 4: Treat Lacerations, Contusions, and Extrusions of the Eye
4-7
4-7. TREAT AN AVULSED OR EXTRUDED EYEBALL
a. Position patient on his back (supine position).
b. Cut a hole in several layers of the bulky dressing material.
(1) Build up dressing higher than globe.
(2) Moisten pad to prevent globe from becoming dry; to prevent ulcerations, and to prevent additional damage.
c. Place dressing so that injured globe protrudes, but does not touch, through hole (see figure 4-3).
d. Place paper cup or cone-shaped thin cardboard to cover eye, without putting pressure on it (see figure 4-3).
Figure 4-3. Treatment for an avulsed or extruded eyeball.
e. Place pad and first aid dressing over uninjured eye to prevent sympathetic eye movement.
f. Apply roller gauze bandage/Kerlex to hold cup or cardboard cone in place.
Secure dressing over uninjured eye (see figure 4-4).
.
Figure 4-4. Dressing secured over uninjured eye.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to replace eyeball in its socket, more harm or injury could
be done, to include blindness. Replacement is only done by a
physician. Detachment of the retina may result from such injury if
patient is not kept quiet and on his back.
NOTE: Remember to include information regarding patient's use of contact lenses, if
appropriate.
NOTE: If patient wears glasses, evacuate them with the patient, even if broken.
NOTE: Transport patient with eye injury on his back, with head elevated and
immobilized.
