First Aid Guides
Eye injury - Major injury
What to do if someone has a major injury to the eye
A major injury includes objects penetrating the eye or if there is substantial damage through impact.
Injury to the eyes can cause long-term, partial or permanent damage.
It's critical with a serious eye injury that you call Triple Zero (000) immediately and apply first aid.
By responding quickly, you decrease the possibility of infection or loss of sight.
Read more about causes, signs and symptoms.
Start with DRSABCD
D - Danger
Assess the area to ensure its safe for yourself, others and the patient. Only proceed to help them if its safe.
R - Response
Check for a response. You can do this by asking their name and squeezing their shoulders.
- If they do respond: Make them comfortable and continue to follow the steps in this guide
- If they don't respond: Send for help immediately (call Triple Zero 000) and follow the DRSABCD Action Plan
First aid for a major eye injury
If someone has a major eye injury, call Triple Zero (000).
Don't try to remove a foreign object from the eye yourself.
While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, follow these steps:
Step 1: Rest and reassure
- Lay them on their back and keep them still
- Support their head using blankets/towels to stop movement
Step 2: Cover the wound
- If there is an object, place a non-fluffy dressing around the object and bandage gently in place
- If there is no object, place a pad over the eye and bandage gently in place
- Don't place pressure on the eye
Step 3: Monitor symptoms
- Monitor for signs of shock
- Calm and reassure them
- If they have difficulty breathing or lose consciousness, follow the DRSABCD Action Plan
Someone with a major injury to the eye might experience shock. Shock can be life-threatening
