Removal of Foreign Body (Eye)

  • If you do not have access to adequate resources (e.g., slit lamp or loupes) and cannot see the foreign body clearly with magnification, refer to ophthalmologist to prevent globe penetration or further damage to the cornea.
  • Do not approach the globe with a sharp instrument if you are uncomfortable or untrained in this procedure.
  • Patient presentation of corneal abrasions is similar to that of foreign bodies.
  • Assess tetanus status following any injury that penetrates the cornea or sclera.
  • Optic antibiotics are required to prevent superinfection following foreign body removal from the eye.

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Advanced Procedural Skills Copyright © 2018 by Brittany Stephenson NP, BScN, MN is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.