Ophthalmic trauma in the emergency department

Patients with eye problems are likely to make up a significant proportion of the workload of any emergency department. This article aims to provide accurate and current information about the recognition and treatment of traumatic eye presentations and describes the minimal equipment necessary to carry this out effectively. The main components of a comprehensive eye assessment are discussed consisting of: assessment and recording of visual acuity, ascertaining an accurate history and techniques of systematic eye examination. The article goes on to describe the assessment and treatment of minor ocular trauma, major closed and open trauma, orbital trauma and injury to the lids. Throughout, recognition of trauma and correct and timely treatment and referral is stressed to allow emergency nurses to develop the skills to care for this group of patients effectively.