| Class: |
Topical ophthalmic anesthetic |
| Route: |
Dropped into the affected eye |
Adult and Pediatric Dose: |
Paramedics may administer 1-2 drops ophthalmological anesthetic agent to affected eye(s) and may repeat every 5 minutes to a maximum of three doses, as indicated |
| Drug Action: |
Rapid, brief, superficial anesthesia; blocks nerve impulses from sensory nerves |
| Onset: |
Within 30 seconds |
| Duration: |
10-15 minutes |
| Indications: |
- Short-term relief from corneal burns or corneal abrasions
- Patient comfort prior to irrigation associated with chemical exposure, pepper spray, mace
|
| Precautions: |
Caution patient not to rub eye |
| Side Effects: |
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Irritation
|
| Contraindications: |
- Eye avulsion
- Foreign bodies in the eyes
- Globe rupture
- Allergies to the "caine" drugs
|