You are working at the local timber mill. While operating a wood-shredding machine, a fellow worker is struck in the eye by a large wood splinter. He lacks eye protection.

When assessing the patient you observe:

• He is obviously in pain, holding a hand over one eye.
• He has a large wood splinter in his eye.

First Aid Management of Eye Injury
Eye protection should be worn whenever eyes are at risk

• eye injuries should not be treated lightly
• remember that you may damage the sight if you interfere with injured eyes
• do not touch the coloured part of the eye.

Signs and symptoms

• pain
• redness
• sensitivity to light
• watering.

Management
All eye injuries MUST be referred for medical attention immediately. Call 111 ask for an ambulance.

Caring for all New Zealanders
Through our first aid kits and training, ambulance and community services and health care products we are the first to care for your community. Be prepared in an emergency with St John first aid kits and training. For more information phone us toll free on 0800 FIRST AID (0800 34778 243)or email enquiries@stjohn.org.nz