During eye irrigation for a client exposed to smoke and ash, which action is appropriate?

During eye irrigation for a client exposed to smoke and ash, which action is appropriate?

• A. Hold the irrigator 1.25 cm above the eye
• B. Direct the irrigation solution up toward the upper eyelid
• C. Exert pressure on the bony prominences when holding the eyelids open
• D. Direct the irrigation from the outer canthus to the inner canthus

Answer: (C)

When irrigating the eye, the priority is to keep the eye safe while flushing out irritants. The eyelids should be opened with gentle traction while your fingers rest on the bony orbital rims—the stiff, bony edges around the eye—not on the eyeball itself. This stabilizes the lids and prevents pressure on the delicate eyeball, allowing a steady, directed flow of irrigation across the surface of the eye. Directing the stream from the inner canthus toward the outer canthus helps wash debris away from the tear duct, reducing the chance of contaminating the lacrimal sac. Avoid pressing on the globe or directing the stream in ways that push solution toward the puncta or upper lid, and keep the irrigator at a safe distance to avoid contact with the cornea.

When irrigating the eye, the priority is to keep the eye safe while flushing out irritants. The eyelids should be opened with gentle traction while your fingers rest on the bony orbital rims—the stiff, bony edges around the eye—not on the eyeball itself. This stabilizes the lids and prevents pressure on the delicate eyeball, allowing a steady, directed flow of irrigation across the surface of the eye. Directing the stream from the inner canthus toward the outer canthus helps wash debris away from the tear duct, reducing the chance of contaminating the lacrimal sac. Avoid pressing on the globe or directing the stream in ways that push solution toward the puncta or upper lid, and keep the irrigator at a safe distance to avoid contact with the cornea.