After an eye irrigation due to a chemical splash, what should the nurse assess next?

In this scenario, assessing visual acuity after an eye irrigation due to a chemical splash is crucial because it helps determine the extent of any potential damage to the eye and guides further treatment. During an eye irrigation process, the primary goal is to dilute and remove the harmful substance, but evaluating visual acuity provides immediate insight into how effectively the eye is functioning post-irrigation.

By checking visual acuity, the nurse can detect any impairment in vision that may require more urgent ophthalmological intervention or treatment. This assessment is crucial for forming a baseline and documenting the patient's condition, especially since chemical injuries can lead to significant and sometimes rapid changes in vision.

While evaluating vital signs, pain level, and pupil response are also important aspects of a comprehensive assessment after a chemical splash, visual acuity is specifically related to the injury sustained and the effectiveness of the irrigation treatment, making it the most immediate next step in this context.