Managing eye injuries

Abstract

Based on what you found during the eye examination, classify the injury as a non-mechanical injury (chemical or thermal injury), a non-globe injury (orbital or adnexal injury) or as a mechanical globe injury. In the case of mechanical globe injuries, it is important to classify the injury according to the Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology System (BETTS) and write it down in the patient’s notes; this will help to ensure that everyone involved in caring for the patient will have a consistent understanding of the type of injury. The resulting uniformity of terminology also helps with research, making it possible to compare data and do audits of injuries – which is essential for prevention.

Keywords

• Ophthalmic practice
• Case management
• Eye injuries
• Referral