When should you not irrigate an eye?

Irrigating an eye is a crucial step in managing certain ocular emergencies, but there are specific scenarios when it is not appropriate to irrigate. In the case of penetrating trauma, the integrity of the eyeball may be compromised, and irrigating the eye could exacerbate the injury or lead to further complications, including the potential loss of intraocular contents or introduction of contaminants.

When dealing with penetrating trauma, it is vital to stabilize the patient's condition and protect the eye without applying pressure or irrigation that could worsen the injury. Instead, the eye should be shielded, and the patient should be transported for definitive medical care. This cautious approach helps to preserve vision and minimizes the risk of worsening the patient's condition.

In contrast, other scenarios, such as chemical burns, typically warrant irrigation to help remove harmful substances. If a patient experiences pain, that alone does not preclude irrigation, as the protocol often involves such action unless a contraindication exists, such as penetrating injury. Therefore, it's essential to recognize the specific context of each ocular emergency and apply appropriate protocols accordingly.