If solid material becomes lodged in the eye, what is the first step for proper first aid?

The most appropriate initial response when solid material becomes lodged in the eye is to pull the top lid over the bottom lid. This action can assist in dislodging the foreign object, leveraging the natural movement of the eye and eyelids. The eyelashes may help brush away any small particles, and the act of blinking can produce tears that aid in flushing out the nuisance.

While flushing the eye with water can be a useful technique in other scenarios, it is often more effective when the foreign object is an irritant or a chemical substance rather than a solid embedded material. Using a cotton swab or similar object to directly remove the foreign body is not recommended, as this may push the object further into the eye or cause additional eye damage. Seeking immediate medical help is crucial for injuries deemed serious; however, in the immediate context of addressing the lodged material, manipulating the eyelids is the first appropriate step.