Though they're not usually serious, nosebleeds can be very alarming. Most nosebleeds occur when blood vessels in the nasal passage rupture. Because children's nasal blood vessels are more delicate, they are more susceptible to nosebleeds than adults are. Help your patient remain calm by using a relaxed, soothing approach. Here's how to stop the flow.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Bowl
- Petroleum Jelly
- Tissue Or Cold Compress
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-
1
Have the person with the nosebleed sit down and lean forward so the blood does not flow down the respiratory passage, but keep the head above the level of the heart.
-
2
Press a tissue or cold compress against the nostrils below the bone to encourage clotting.
-
3
Have the person with the nosebleed keep his or her nostrils pinched together for 5 minutes without letting go, or until the bleeding stops.
-
4
Replace the tissue or compress with a new one if it becomes soaked with blood.
-
5
Leave a bowl next to the person so that he or she can spit out any blood that drips down their throat.
-
6
Remove the tissue or compress slowly. If bleeding persists, continue pinching the nose for another 5 minutes.
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7
After bleeding stops, wash away any blood with warm water. Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly inside the nostrils to moisturize the area.
-
8
Make sure the person does not sniff or blow the nose for several hours afterward, as this could cause another nosebleed.
-
9
If the nosebleed originates in the back of the nose and does not respond to treatment, seek medical attention. This type of nosebleed, called a "posterior" nosebleed, is common in older people and potentially very serious.
-
10
Visit a doctor or an emergency room immediately if bleeding does not stop or if the patient is weak, pale or experiencing an elevated heart rate. Keep the patient leaning forward with the nose pinched on the way to the doctor's office or hospital.
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1
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