In case of an acid splash in the eye, what is the nurse's immediate response?

In the event of an acid splash in the eye, the immediate response should focus on minimizing damage and removing the harmful substance as quickly as possible. Irrigating the eye with copious amounts of sterile saline is crucial because it helps to dilute and wash away the acid, thus reducing its corrosive effects. This action is time-sensitive; delaying irrigation could lead to further injury and complications.

While assessing the extent of the burn, covering the eye, or administering eye drops may be relevant steps in the management of eye injuries, they do not address the urgent need to neutralize the acid and prevent deeper tissue damage. Therefore, providing immediate irrigation is the most critical and appropriate first step in managing an acid eye injury.