What procedure should be followed if a patient has a chemical burn in both eyes?

When dealing with a chemical burn in both eyes, it is critical to act swiftly to minimize damage and preserve vision. Flushing both eyes simultaneously is the most effective procedure because it ensures that any chemical agent is rapidly diluted and removed from both eyes at the same time. This approach reduces the risk of further injury that could occur if one eye is treated at a time, as it prevents prolonged exposure to the harmful substance.

Immediate and simultaneous flushing helps to remove the chemical agent more efficiently, reducing the time it remains in contact with the eye tissues. Using copious amounts of water or saline during this process aids in diluting the chemical and washing it away from the eye surfaces, promoting better outcomes and potentially preserving sight.

In other procedures, such as covering both eyes or flushing them one at a time, there are significant delays or risks of increased injury to the eyes that are exposed to the chemical. Thus, flushing both eyes at the same time is the optimal response in the case of chemical burns.