Eye Trauma Overview

Eye injuries can include abrasions, lacerations, foreign bodies, penetrating objects, blunt force, or burns.

Many eye injuries are preventable with education.

Nurses should teach eye safety to patients throughout their life.

The exposed parts of the eye are more easily injured.

Abrasions, lacerations, and foreign bodies are frequent eye injuries.

Eye injuries can be caused by various factors, including recreational activities, workplace accidents, fireworks, car accidents, and home accidents.

Over 55 million people worldwide experience eye injuries each year, leading to significant vision impairment and even blindness.

Approximately 20,000 workers in the United States sustain work-related eye injuries every year.

Adults working in construction, woodworking, welding, and electrical fields have a higher risk of eye injuries.

Common sources of eye trauma in the workplace include chemicals, projectiles, steam, radiation, and bloodborne pathogens.

Men and people under 60 years old are common patients in emergency departments due to eye injury.

Flying debris, machinery, tools, particles, and chemicals pose a serious risk of eye injury in the workplace.

Sports and recreational activities account for more than 40% of eye injuries.

Home maintenance, yard work, cleaning, and cooking also cause significant eye injuries.

Sports with flying or moving objects, like pucks, balls, bats, or rackets, often result in eye injuries.

Different organizations set safety standards for eye protection depending on the activity. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) sets standards for home use while the American Society for Testing and Materials covers sports and recreation.

This label signifies that the eye protection meets the American National Standards Institute's safety standards for home use.

Wearing eye protection with UV protection is essential for outdoor activities like water skiing or snow skiing to prevent glare and eye damage.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates workplace eye protection requirements, and employers are responsible for providing and enforcing these standards.

Wearing eye protection is crucial to prevent eye injuries, as it can significantly reduce the risk of damage, especially during activities involving projectiles, chemicals, or intense light.