Epistaxis Management

  • Epistaxis is a common condition and most cases can be managed with simple first aid measures.
  • Assess ABCs when patient presents with epistaxis.
  • 90% of epistaxis arise from the anterior nasal septum.
  • A stepwise approach can be used to achieve hemostasis: first-aid measures, local vasoconstriction, nasal cautery, anterior nasal packing.
  • Commercially available devices for nasal packing are quicker and easier to use than traditional ribbon gauze packing.
  • Posterior bleeds should be referred to hospital for management.

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Advanced Procedural Skills Copyright © 2018 by Brittany Stephenson NP, BScN, MN is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.