Poked Eye First Aid: Immediate Care and What to Do

First Aid for a Poked Eye

1. Immediately wash eye with cool water. Flushes out bacteria from the object.
2. Do not rub the eye. Rubbing can further damage cornea and cause infection.
3. Remove contact lenses if worn. They can worsen corneal damage.
4. Apply cold compress. Reduces swelling and pain.
5. Take OTC pain reliever (ibuprofen, acetaminophen).
6. Seek immediate medical attention if vision is blurry or pain is severe—signs of serious injury.

Prevention Tips

• Avoid sharp objects near eyes.
• Be careful with chemicals.
• Wear protective eyewear for sports, yard work, home projects.
• If you have chronic eye conditions (glaucoma, cataracts), ask your doctor about eye protection.