A construction worker with plaster in his eye likely experienced what type of chemical trauma?

The scenario presented involves a construction worker getting plaster in the eye, which typically consists of gypsum or calcium sulfate. When plaster comes into contact with moisture, it can create a mildly alkaline environment. This means that the exposure to the plaster may lead to chemical trauma classified as an alkali burn.

Alkali burns are particularly dangerous because they can cause more extensive damage than acid burns. This is due to alkali substances having a greater capacity for penetration into the eye tissues. In comparison to acids, which can cause immediate pain and damage, alkalis can continue to damage the tissue over time, often requiring prompt and careful irrigation to prevent serious complications like corneal perforation or vision loss.

Understanding the nature of the chemical involved—such as plaster in this context—supports the conclusion that the correct type of chemical trauma experienced is an alkali burn, emphasizing the need for immediate medical intervention in such cases to mitigate long-term damage.