Corneal Abrasion Assessment and Management
Aftercare
- Oral NSAIDs for pain relief.
- Avoid rubbing the eye to prevent further damage.
- Avoid use of contact lenses until symptoms have resolved.
- Small corneal abrasions are self-limited and typically heal within 24-48 hours.
- Topical antibiotics are recommended for corneal abrasions to prevent secondary bacterial infection.
- Consider ointment versus drops as ointment functions as a lubricant.
- Antibiotic preparations containing corticosteroids should be avoided as they slow epithelial healing and can increase the risk of secondary infection.
- Non-contact lens wearers: Erythromycin ointment.
- Contact lens wearers: requires Pseudomonas coverage (i.e., ciprofloxacin).
Follow-up
- Consider daily follow-up for large corneal ulcers until healing has occurred due to increased risk of secondary bacterial infection
- Return if symptoms persist beyond 48 hours
- Return of symptoms continue to worsen in the initial 24-48 hours
- Pediatric patients who are unwilling to open their eye after 24 hours should be referred to ophthalmology