An occupational exposure occurs when a patient’s blood splashes into the employee’s eye. What is an appropriate immediate step?

• A. Rinse the eye with water or saline for at least 15 minutes
• B. Cover the eye with a sterile dressing and wait
• C. Rinse with alcohol
• D. Ignore and continue work

Answer: (A)

When the eye is exposed to patient blood, the first priority is to physically remove potentially infectious material. Start flushing the eye with clean water or sterile saline for at least 15 minutes, using an eyewash station or running water, and keep the eyelids open so all surfaces are rinsed. This thorough irrigation helps dilute and wash away contaminants, reducing the chance of pathogen transmission. Don’t rub the eye, don’t cover it and wait, and don’t use alcohol—alcohol can irritate and damage eye tissue. After irrigation, seek medical evaluation promptly for post-exposure management and any necessary follow-up or post-exposure prophylaxis.