Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamSafety, Sanitation, and SterilizationMedium
A cosmetologist is performing a hair coloring service and accidentally splashes a small amount of hair dye into their own eye. What is the immediate and most critical first aid action to take?
- AFlush the eye immediately and continuously with lukewarm water for at least 15-20 minutes.
- BClose the eye tightly and wait for the irritation to subside before seeking medical attention.
- CApply a cold compress to the affected eye to reduce irritation.
- DAttempt to remove the dye with a clean cotton swab and then rinse the eye.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Flush the eye immediately and continuously with lukewarm water for at least 15-20 minutes.
In the event of a chemical splash to the eye, immediate and prolonged flushing with water is the most critical first aid step to dilute and remove the chemical, minimizing damage. Delaying or insufficient flushing can lead to severe injury.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Closing the eye and waiting is extremely dangerous; chemical exposure to the eye requires immediate intervention to prevent permanent damage.
- C. A cold compress will not remove the chemical and may delay critical flushing.
- D. Attempting to swab the eye can cause further irritation or injury and should not be done before or instead of flushing.
Chemical Eye Splash First Aid
The immediate and critical first aid procedure for chemical exposure to the eye, involving prolonged flushing with water to dilute and remove the substance.
- Flush immediately
- Use lukewarm water
- Flush for 15-20 minutes
Memory trick: When chemicals hit the eye, 'Flush, Flush, Flush' is the immediate cry!