Eye Injury in a Child
Content reviewed against published AAP, AAO, Prevent Blindness guidelines
Last reviewed:
Eye injuries in children range from minor scratches to serious trauma. Any eye injury needs careful evaluation because vision can be permanently affected. Never rub or apply pressure to an injured eye.
Immediate actions
- May not require 911 — see guidance below
- Keep the child calm and prevent them from rubbing or touching the eye
- DO NOT: Do NOT rub or apply pressure to the injured eye
Step-by-Step Response
Assess the injury type
Determine: Is it a chemical splash? A blow/impact? A foreign object? A cut or puncture? Each requires different first aid.
Chemical splash
Immediately flush the eye with clean running water for at least 15-20 minutes. Hold eyelids open gently. Tilt head so water runs from inner corner outward. Then go to ER.
Blow or impact to eye
Apply a cold compress (ice in a cloth) gently over the eye without pressure for 15 minutes. Watch for vision changes, blood in the eye, or unequal pupils.
Foreign object (small, surface)
If a small particle is visible on the white of the eye, try gently flushing with clean water or saline. Do NOT rub. If it will not flush out, cover and seek care.
Embedded or penetrating object
Do NOT remove the object. Place a paper cup or protective shield over the eye without touching the object. Cover the other eye to reduce movement. Go to ER immediately.
Cut or puncture of eye/eyelid
Cover the eye gently with a clean shield (paper cup taped over eye). Do NOT apply pressure. Do NOT rinse. Go to ER immediately.
Transport to care
Keep child calm and still. Cover both eyes if possible (reduces eye movement). Do not let child bend over or strain.
What NOT to Do
- ✕Do NOT rub or apply pressure to the injured eye
- ✕Do NOT attempt to remove an object stuck in the eye
- ✕Do NOT use tweezers or cotton swabs in the eye
- ✕Do NOT apply ointments or medication without medical advice
- ✕Do NOT let the child rub the eye
- ✕Do NOT remove contact lenses if there is a suspected penetrating injury
When to Seek Help
Call 911 if:
- Object is impaled or deeply embedded in the eye
- Severe chemical burn to the eye especially with strong alkali (drain cleaner, oven cleaner)
- Significant bleeding from the eye or orbit
- Eye injury with loss of consciousness or other serious injuries
Go to ER if:
- Any chemical splash to the eye (after 15-20 minutes of flushing)
- Object stuck in the eye that cannot be flushed out
- Blow to the eye with any vision change, double vision, or blood visible in the eye
- Cut or puncture to the eye or eyelid
- Sudden loss of vision or partial vision loss
- Unequal pupil sizes after eye injury
- Pain that is worsening rather than improving
Call your doctor if:
- Minor scratch sensation after something flew into the eye
- Mild redness or irritation without vision changes
- Small subconjunctival hemorrhage (blood spot on white of eye) without trauma
- Persistent tearing or light sensitivity after minor irritation
Age-Specific Guidance
0-1 year
Eye injuries in infants are often from scratches (their own fingernails or siblings), pokes from objects, or chemical exposure from splashed products. Keep baby's nails trimmed. Any eye redness or discharge needs evaluation.
1-3 years
Toddlers are at risk from falls onto objects, poking themselves with sticks or toys, and chemical splashes from cleaning products. Supervise closely around sharp objects and chemicals.
3-8 years
Sports injuries, thrown objects, and play-related trauma are common. Teach children not to throw sand, sticks, or hard objects. Use protective eyewear for sports and active play near hazards.
Prevention
- Require protective eyewear for sports (racquetball, baseball, hockey)
- Keep sharp objects (scissors, pencils, forks) away from young children
- Store chemicals securely — eye splashes are common in children
- Use caution with rubber bands, bungee cords, and elastic toys
- Keep children away from lawn mowers, trimmers, and power tools in use
- Avoid toys that shoot projectiles for young children
- Install corner guards on sharp furniture edges
Frequently asked questions
Should I call 911 for eye injury in a child?
What should I do first?
What should I NOT do?
How can I prevent this?
Sources
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources
Related Emergency Guides
Bottom line
Stay calm and follow the steps above. When in doubt, call your pediatrician or go to the nearest emergency room.
You are doing the right thing by learning what to do in an emergency. Being prepared is one of the best things you can do for your child.