A factory worker is brought to the nurse’s office after a metal fragment enters his right eye. The nurse should:
A. Attempt to remove the metal with a cotton-tipped applicator
B. Cover both eyes and transport the client to the ER
C. Cover the right eye with a sterile 4×4
D. Flush the eye for 10 minutes with running water
Correct Answer: B. Cover both eyes and transport the client to the ER
Option B: Foreign objects such as metal fragments may penetrate the eye and become embedded. The nurse should not attempt to remove the object but to cover both of the client’s eyes to prevent eye movement in the affected eye and seek medical help as soon as possible.
Options A, C, and D: These interventions increase the risk of further injury to the eye.