Treating a nose bleed

Silver Wolf - First Aid: Show how to treat a bleeding nose

• Stay safe! Make sure you are not going to be hurt while helping the victim.
• Lean forward, not back. The blood needs to go somewhere and will most likely go down the throat. If the victim leans back, blood could get in the windpipe causing a blocked airway or go into the stomach. Blood may irritate the stomach lining and cause the victim to vomit.
• Pinch the nose just below the bony bridge. Your fingers should be on the soft tissue as well as the bone. If there is still blood flowing, adjust your grip. There should not be visible bleeding while you are holding the nose. Hold the nose for at least 5 minutes. Do not let go to check bleeding until the 5 minutes are up.
• After 5 minutes, release the pressure to see if the bleeding has stopped. If not, repeat for 10 minutes this time. Remember: don't let go to check bleeding until the 10 minutes are up. Repeat for another 10 minutes if necessary.
• If a nosebleed doesn't stop after the second or third try, it's time to see a doctor. If at any time, the victim feels lightheaded, dizzy or weak call for help. If left uncontrolled, bloody noses can lead to shock.

Tips:

• Placing ice or a chemical cold pack over the bridge of the nose can constrict the blood vessels and help stop bleeding. Use this in addition to pressure.
• After the bleeding is controlled, do not let the victim blow their nose. Blowing the nose will release the clots and encourage bleeding to start again.