How should you treat an eyelid injury without affecting the eyeball itself?

Padding and protecting the affected area is critical in the case of an eyelid injury. Covering the affected eye with a patch helps to shield it from further injury and prevents additional irritation while still allowing for observation of the eye itself. This protective measure is essential to prevent contamination and avoid any potential complications to the eyeball during the healing process.

Covering the eye with a patch allows for a careful assessment of the extent of the injury while minimizing the risk of movement, which could cause further harm. Given the sensitivity of the eyelid and the proximity to the eyeball, it is crucial to maintain a stable environment for healing.

In contrast, removing foreign objects can potentially exacerbate the injury if not done with great care or if the object is embedded. Applying direct pressure to the eyeball is inadvisable, as this can lead to more significant damage. Instructing the patient to blink frequently does not address the injury properly and can lead to discomfort or further injury.