Which of the following is essential before flushing the eyes after OC exposure?

• A. Removing contact lenses
• B. Putting on protective goggles
• C. Turning head to the side
• D. Rinsing with salted water

Answer: (A)

Removing contact lenses is essential before flushing because lenses can trap OC irritant against the eye, keeping the irritant in contact with the corneal surface and hindering effective irrigation. By taking the lenses out, clean running water or sterile saline can reach the eye directly, wash away the irritant more thoroughly, and reduce ongoing irritation. The other actions don’t address this trapping issue: protective goggles help prevent exposure but don’t improve flushing once exposure has occurred; turning the head to the side may aid drainage but isn’t a core step for effective irrigation; salted water can sting and is not the preferred flush—clean water or saline is better.