Ophthalmic trauma: First-line management in primary care

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Emergency Medicine
• General Practice

Background:

• Eye trauma is a significant cause of acute care visits in Australia.
• Ocular trauma, though infrequent in primary care, can lead to irreversible vision impairment.
• Timely diagnosis and treatment of eye injuries are essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To equip general practitioners (GPs) with an evidence-based guide for assessing and managing common eye trauma.
• To align with Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) competencies.
• To emphasize safe triage, early intervention, and identification of critical red flags.

Main Methods:

• Review of common ophthalmic trauma presentations.
• Highlighting essential assessment techniques.
• Guidance on management, including irrigation, fluorescein use, and eyelid eversion.

Main Results:

• Identified key presentations: chemical injuries, corneal abrasions, foreign bodies, blunt trauma.
• Outlined red flags for urgent referral: open globe injuries, orbital compartment syndrome.
• Provided practical tips for GP assessment and management.

Conclusions:

• GPs play a vital role in the initial management of eye trauma.
• Adherence to guidelines ensures appropriate triage and referral.
• Effective first-line management can prevent long-term visual morbidity.