- The client/caregiver can define epistaxis and common causes.
- Epistaxis is bleeding from the nose.
- Common causes of epistaxis are
- Injury or blow to nose
- Inflammation or ulceration from sinusitis
- Growths or polyps in the nose
- Chemical irritants
- Receiving large doses of aspirin or anticoagulants
- The client/caregiver can list ways to stop the epistaxis.
- Remain calm with head slightly elevated.
- Apply pressure to the nostril of the bleeding side.
- Apply cold compresses over the nose.
- Notify health care providers of use of any medication such as
- Aspirin
- Nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs
- Anticoagulants
- Use saline spray or gel to moisten the lining of your nose.
- Remind children not to “pick” their noses or use excessive force when blowing their nose.
- Get emergency help if
- Bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes
- Also received injury to the head
- The nose is misshapen after an injury
Resources
Childcare classes
First aid classes
References
Cohen, B. J., & Taylor, J. J. (2005). Memmler’s the human body in health and disease (10th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.Perry, A., & Potter, P. (2006). Clinical nursing skills & technique. St. Louis: Mosby Inc.Nutrition made incredibly easy. (2003). Springhouse: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins. Timby, B. K., & Smith, N. C. (2003). Introductory medical- surgical nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Credits
Client Teaching Guides for Home Health Care, 2nd ed.© 2008 Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc.www.jbpub.com