Health News 14/07/2025 14:20

3-Year-Old Boy Gets Super Glue in His Eye: Mother's “Golden 30 Seconds” Action Saves Him from Blindness

In critical moments, having essential first aid knowledge can be incredibly helpful.
Bé trai 3 tuổi bị keo 502 bắn vào mắt, hành động của người mẹ trong “30 giây vàng” đã cứu con khỏi cảnh mù loà!- Ảnh 1.

3-year-old boy accidentally got super glue in his eye
A mother was using 502 super glue to fix some small decorations, while her 3-year-old son played nearby. After using the glue, she forgot to close the cap. The glue bottle fell to the floor as she went on with other tasks. Unexpectedly, the boy stepped on the bottle, causing glue to splatter — and some landed directly in his eye.

The child cried out in fear and instinctively tried to rub his eye. Seeing this, the mother panicked but quickly composed herself. She stopped her son from rubbing his eye and told him to blink instead. Carrying him to the kitchen, she gently rinsed his eye with warm water under the tap. She then immediately took him to the hospital.

Doctors later confirmed the injury was not serious and praised the mother for her quick and proper response. Thanks to her basic first aid knowledge, the child avoided major eye damage. The doctor only prescribed saline solution and an antibiotic ointment, instructing her to return for regular cleaning and follow-up.


Proper First Aid for Super Glue Accidents

502 glue, also known as super glue, contains ethyl α-cyanoacrylate — a fast-drying, highly adhesive, and pungent chemical. It’s commonly used for crafts, but mishandling can lead to accidents. Some people get it on their hands, while others may accidentally get glue in their eyes due to incorrect handling. Children have even mistaken glue bottles for eye drops.

The eyes are delicate organs. When exposed to dangerous chemicals, it's crucial to apply the correct first aid and avoid common mistakes:

1. Avoid Rubbing the Eyes

When something gets into the eye, our instinct is to rub it. But in the case of super glue, rubbing can worsen the injury and push the glue deeper into the tissue. Instead, try to blink rapidly to stimulate tear flow, and then rinse with warm water.

2. Don’t Rinse with Cold Water

Cold water causes super glue to harden faster. Using warm water is more effective to soften and dilute the glue.

3. Do Not Force Objects Apart

If the glue causes the eyelids to stick together, never try to pry them apart forcefully. This can result in more severe damage. Let a medical professional handle it.


“Golden 30 Seconds” Rescue Steps for Glue in the Eye
Bé trai 3 tuổi bị keo 502 bắn vào mắt, hành động của người mẹ trong “30 giây vàng” đã cứu con khỏi cảnh mù loà!- Ảnh 2.

Every year, many glue-related injuries occur, and some involve glue splashing into the eyes. The critical first 30 seconds can be broken into three key steps:

Step 1: Rinse Under Warm Running Water

Warm water helps soften glue and ease pain. Use clean fingers to gently open the child's eyelid and let the water flow from the inner to the outer corner of the eye.

Step 2: Use a Cotton Swab to Remove Residue

If residue remains, carefully use a sterile cotton swab dipped in saline solution to gently roll along the eyelid and remove remaining glue.

Step 3: Seek Medical Attention

After performing basic first aid, take the child to the hospital immediately for professional care and monitoring.


Preventing Glue Injuries in Children

To keep children safe, always keep dangerous items out of their reach, including:

  • Tools and electric sockets

  • Cleaners and chemicals

  • Medications and cosmetics

  • Small items and sharp objects


In Summary:
Hidden dangers are all around us. Parents should stay alert and remove potential hazards while their children are young. As children grow, it’s essential to teach them safety knowledge to prevent accidents before they happen.


Tips for Removing Super Glue

  • Use Warm Water
    If glue has just gotten on your fingers and hasn't dried, soak the area in warm water immediately. Then apply an ice pack — the glue may peel off more easily.

  • Try Cold Water
    Soaking in cold water can also harden the glue, making it easier to peel away.

  • Use Acetone
    Acetone is effective in dissolving super glue. Apply a few drops to the affected area, rub gently, and the glue should come off.


If glue gets into the eye:
Immediately rinse under running water. Let water continuously flush out the glue for several minutes.

Avoid excessive blinking during rinsing, as dried glue can scratch the cornea. After rinsing, apply a clean cold compress over the eye and go to a medical facility for treatment.

Super glue dries very quickly, so when using it, carefully align and mark surfaces before applying.
When working with small items, be extra cautious to prevent mess and damage.
For larger gaps, don’t pour glue directly — insert tissue or cotton to fill the gap first, then apply glue.

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