MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What should be done to treat a person with glass stuck in their eye?

1. Blindfold only the injured eye

2. Blindfold both eyes

3. Apply direct pressure

4. Flush the eye with water

The correct answer is: Blindfold both eyes

When dealing with an eye injury involving glass or any foreign object, it is vital to minimize movement and prevent further injury. Blindfolding both eyes is the best practice because it reduces the likelihood of the injured eye moving during attempts to treat the injury. The injured eye often has increased sensitivity to light and might involuntarily move, which could worsen the injury. Additionally, covering both eyes helps to prevent the injured eye from tracking motion, protecting it from further damage or discomfort. Other approaches, such as applying direct pressure, can exacerbate the situation by potentially driving the glass deeper into the eye or causing additional damage. Flushing the eye with water is not recommended in cases where there is a foreign object embedded in the eye, as this can also increase the risk of further injury without effectively removing the glass. By covering both eyes, treatment focuses on stabilizing the injury and seeking immediate professional medical assistance, minimizing the risk of complications. This approach is crucial in trauma scenarios to ensure the best possible outcome for the injured individual.