While you are using an eyewash, your eyes should be:

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The correct approach when using an eyewash is to keep your eyes open. This is essential because the purpose of an eyewash station is to flush out harmful substances or contaminants that may have entered the eyes. Keeping your eyes open allows the irrigating fluid to effectively wash away foreign materials and help mitigate potential damage.

In an emergency situation where chemicals have splashed into the eyes, it’s critical that the person uses the eyewash properly by positioning themselves so that both eyes can be adequately rinsed with the flowing water. This also helps to ensure that the fluid can reach all surfaces of the eye, providing the best chance of preventing injury or irritation.

Other choices, such as keeping the eyes closed or crossed, would hinder the flushing process and could lead to further harm, as the contaminants would not be effectively removed. Shielding the eyes would also obstruct the necessary rinsing action. Therefore, keeping the eyes open during the use of an eyewash is vital for effective decontamination and eye safety.