Indications for Eye Irrigation and Eyelid Eversion Chemical injury to the eye (caustic chemical burns are a medical emergency; irrigation should begin as soon as possible, with on-site flushing with whatever water is available, even before medical help arrives) Removal of small particulate matter from the eye Treatment of foreign body sensation when no particulates are visible (sometimes successful) Contraindications to Eye Irrigation and Eyelid Eversion Absolute contraindications None Relative contraindications If eye perforation is suspected, irrigation should be deferred until formal eye examination can be done.