Severe thermal burns to the eye should be handled by which protocol?

• A. Protocol 3
• B. Protocol 11
• C. Protocol 7
• D. Protocol 5

Answer: (C)

Severe thermal burns to the eye require immediate, ongoing irrigation to cool the tissue and limit further damage, followed by rapid transport to an eye-emergency facility. The protocol for eye injuries is the one that provides specific steps for this situation, including starting irrigation right away with sterile saline or clean water and continuing it through transport to keep the eye rinsed while you arrange advanced care. It also covers safe handling like removing a contact lens if possible, shielding the eye with a clean dressing, and avoiding ointments or rubbing, all of which help protect delicate ocular tissues during the critical early moments. Since the priority is to minimize injury and preserve vision, this protocol is the most appropriate choice for a severe thermal burn to the eye.