What is the correct first aid for a nose bleed?

• A. Pinch the soft part of the nose for 10 minutes and ask the client to lean forward
• B. Tilt the head back and lean forward
• C. Apply a cold compress to the forehead
• D. Pinch the soft part of the nose for 10 minutes and lean forward; if bleeding does not stop, continue the pressure for 2 further periods of 10 minutes. If bleeding lasts for more than 30 minutes, send casualty to the hospital in the treatment position.

Answer: (D)

The main idea is to stop the nosebleed with direct pressure and by keeping the head forward to protect the airway. Pinching the soft part of the nose for about ten minutes directly squeezes the bleeding vessels and helps form a clot, while leaning forward prevents blood from running down the throat, reducing choking or gagging and making it easier to see the source of bleed. If the bleeding hasn’t stopped after the initial ten minutes, continue applying pressure for two more ten-minute periods. If it lasts longer than about thirty minutes, seek medical help and transport the person sitting up with the head forward. Tilting the head back is discouraged because it can cause blood to run into the stomach or lungs and doesn’t aid clotting. A cold compress to the forehead may offer comfort but does not substitute for direct nasal pressure and proper positioning.