197 Eye Injury: Contusion (Blunt Trauma) 98 Definition Non-penetrating ocular injury caused by direct blow to eye, indirect blow to bony orbit, or from air blast or explosion. Characteristics Pain, blurred vision, erythema or ecchymosis, edema, decreased visual acuity, tearing, and hyphema. Policy Evaluate employee in the occupational health unit. Objectives Clinical Assessments and Interventions Referral for Medical Action ● Substantial or prolonged pain, edema, decreased visual acuity, or double vision. ● Intraocular hemorrhage. ● Signs of fracture. ● Evidence of direct blow to the globe of the eye. Follow-up Actions ● Discuss importance of eye pro- tection. ● Discuss signs and symptoms of further eye injury. ● Treat as specified by medical order. ● Conduct worksite assessment to identify potential hazards and pre- vention strategies. ● If injury is due to violence, provide employee with information regard- ing domestic or workplace vio- lence, warning signs, and reporting mechanisms, as appropriate. ● Perform visual acuity 24 hours post injury. Determine extent and severity of injury. Provide symptom relief. ● Inspect lids and eye for damage. ● Check eye for contact lenses and remove, if possible. ● Obtain history of injury. ● Apply cool compresses (for 15-minute peri- ods) or ice compresses (for 5-minute peri- ods) until edema is reduced. ● Examine for blood behind cornea or over iris (anterior chamber). ● Record visual acuity. ● Provide or refer for immediate medical care. Guideline continues on next page