Question

A client arrives in the emergency department with an eye injury caused by metal fragments that hit the eye while drilling into metal. The nurse checks the eye and notes small pieces of metal floating on the eyeball. Which action should the nurse plan to assist with first?

A. Irrigate the eye with normal saline.
B. Remove the metal fragments using sterile forceps.
C. Apply an eye patch to protect the eye.
D. Administer oral pain medication.

Answer 1

The nurse should first irrigate the eye with normal saline to remove the metal fragments. Then, the nurse can remove the fragments using sterile forceps and apply an eye patch for protection. If needed, oral pain medication can be administered.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should first plan to irrigate the eye with normal saline in order to remove the small pieces of metal floating on the eyeball. This will help to flush out any debris and prevent further damage. After irrigating the eye, the nurse can then proceed to remove the metal fragments using sterile forceps, ensuring that the eye is properly cleaned and cleared of any foreign objects.

Once the metal fragments are removed, the nurse can apply an eye patch to protect the eye. This will help to shield the eye from further injury and promote healing. Lastly, if the client is experiencing pain, the nurse can administer oral pain medication to provide relief.