If body fluids contact the eyes, what should be done immediately?

If body fluids contact the eyes, what should be done immediately?

• A. Flush with water or saline
• B. Rub eyes vigorously
• C. Wear sunglasses and wait
• D. Only rinse with cold water

Answer: (A)

Immediate irrigation with clean running water or sterile saline is essential when body fluids contact the eyes. This helps dilute and wash away any contaminants and reduces the risk of infection or exposure to bloodborne pathogens. If available, use an eyewash station and continue flushing for at least 15 minutes. Do not rub the eyes, as rubbing can cause further irritation or push material deeper. If you wear contact lenses and it’s safe to do so, remove them during flushing. After flushing, seek medical evaluation, especially if the exposure involved blood or other potentially infectious material, and follow workplace safety protocols.

Immediate irrigation with clean running water or sterile saline is essential when body fluids contact the eyes. This helps dilute and wash away any contaminants and reduces the risk of infection or exposure to bloodborne pathogens. If available, use an eyewash station and continue flushing for at least 15 minutes. Do not rub the eyes, as rubbing can cause further irritation or push material deeper. If you wear contact lenses and it’s safe to do so, remove them during flushing. After flushing, seek medical evaluation, especially if the exposure involved blood or other potentially infectious material, and follow workplace safety protocols.