Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for eye pain. The doctors found a corneal abrasion. This is a scratch on the cornea, which is the clear tissue that covers the colored part of the eye.
A corneal abrasion can happen when something scratches the eye or gets stuck under the eyelid. It can also happen from wearing contact lenses.
Most corneal abrasions heal within a few days. The doctor might have given you eye ointments or drops, or pain medicines. The also might have taped a gauze patch over your eye.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●It is very important to make an appointment to see your eye doctor soon, ideally within 1 day. They will check that the abrasion is healing and that your vision is not affected. If your abrasion was not serious and is not likely to affect your vision, you can see your regular doctor instead.
●Take all your medicines as instructed.
●Do not press on or rub your eyes.
●Do not wear contact lenses until your eye has fully healed. Ask your eye doctor when you can start wearing your contacts again. After that, follow all instructions on proper care, including how long you can wear them and how to clean the lenses and cases. This helps prevent getting another abrasion or an infection.
●Always wash your hands before and after you touch your eyes and contact lenses.
●For the first day or so, it is normal if bright lights cause eye pain. It might help to rest with your eyes closed.
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if you have:
•A change in your eyesight
•Very bad eye pain
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills.
●You still have pain in your eye or are bothered by bright lights after 1 to 2 days.
●You have signs of an eye infection like swelling, redness, warmth, pain, or drainage from the eye.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Corneal abrasion (The Basics)
Patient education: How to use eye medicines (The Basics)
Patient education: Removing objects stuck in the eye (The Basics)
