A parent calls a nurse about their child splashing alcohol in their eyes. What does the nurse instruct the parent to do first?

When a child splashes alcohol in their eyes, the first priority is to effectively and immediately rinse the affected area to minimize injury. Holding the child's head under running lukewarm tap water for 20 minutes is the recommended first step in this situation. This method ensures a continuous flow of water that can effectively dilute and wash out the alcohol from the eyes, reducing the risk of further irritation or damage.

Rinsing with water is a critical intervention, as it helps to flush the chemical out of the eyes quickly, which is essential in preventing possible long-term damage. The recommended duration of 20 minutes is based on guidelines provided by health authorities, recognizing that thorough rinsing is important for any chemical exposure to the eyes.

Other methods, such as using a wet towel, might not provide the same level of effective irrigation and can inadvertently spread the substance around the eye. Applying a cold compress may provide temporary relief from discomfort, but it does not address the immediate need for rinsing the chemical from the eyes. Contacting poison control is important, but it is not the immediate action that must be taken; the priority is to ensure safe and effective decontamination before seeking further medical advice.