Final answer:
When providing immediate care for a chemical burn of the eye, the first and most crucial step is to irrigate the eye with copious amounts of clear water for at least 15-20 minutes, taking care to roll the eyes to ensure thorough flushing. Seek medical attention immediately after.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step that should be taken when providing immediate care for a chemical burn of the eye is to irrigate the eye with copious amounts of clear water. This initial flushing is crucial to dilute and wash away the chemical substance that has come into contact with the eye. It is recommended to use lukewarm water and to continue rinsing the affected eye for at least 15-20 minutes, ensuring that the water runoff does not contaminate the other eye or unaffected parts of the skin.
While doing so, it is essential to hold the eyelids open and roll the eyes around, allowing the water to reach all parts of the eye. Seeking medical attention immediately after commencing irrigation is vital, even if symptoms seem to improve, as some chemicals can cause delayed reactions. It's also important to be aware of the safety equipment locations in the laboratory, such as the eyewash station, before working with chemicals.