First Aid management in case of epistaxis are all EXCEPT:

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

KGMU Nursing Officer 2023 Memory-Based Previous Year Paper

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Tilt head of the person backwards

Rationale:

Epistaxis, commonly known as a nosebleed, is a condition where bleeding occurs from the blood vessels inside the nose. The primary goal of first aid management in epistaxis is to stop the bleeding while ensuring the person's safety and preventing further complications such as aspiration of blood.
Tilting the head backwards is incorrect and not recommended because it can cause blood to flow down the throat, leading to choking or aspiration. Swallowing blood can also irritate the stomach and cause nausea or vomiting, which may worsen the situation.

Key Points for First Aid Management of Epistaxis:

1. Tilt the head forward: This helps prevent blood from flowing into the throat and airways. It allows the blood to drain out through the nose, which is safer and avoids complications like choking.
2. Pinch the soft part of the nose: Applying firm pressure to the soft part of the nose (just below the bony bridge) helps compress the blood vessels and stop the bleeding. This should be done for at least 10–15 minutes without interruption.
3. Ask the person to breathe through their mouth: Breathing through the mouth ensures proper oxygen intake while the nose is being compressed and helps keep the nasal passage undisturbed.
4. Apply a cold compress: Placing a cold compress or ice pack on the bridge of the nose can constrict blood vessels, further reducing bleeding. However, this step is optional and secondary to the main actions.

Explanation of Other Options:

Tilt head of the person forward

Rationale: Tilting the head forward is the correct position for managing epistaxis. This prevents blood from flowing into the throat and ensures it drains out through the nose. It also reduces the risk of choking or aspiration.

Pinch soft part of nose of person

Rationale: Pinching the soft part of the nose is one of the most effective ways to stop bleeding. It applies direct pressure to the bleeding vessels, promoting clot formation and stopping the blood flow.

Ask person to breathe through mouth

Rationale: Encouraging the person to breathe through their mouth ensures that they continue to get sufficient oxygen while the nasal passages are being compressed. It also helps avoid disturbing the clot formation in the nose.

Conclusion:

In the management of epistaxis, tilting the head backwards is incorrect and should be avoided due to the risks of choking, aspiration, and nausea. The correct approach involves tilting the head forward, pinching the soft part of the nose, and ensuring that the person breathes through their mouth. These actions help control the bleeding and minimize complications effectively.