A child develops a nosebleed during outdoor time. Which action should you take?

A child develops a nosebleed during outdoor time. Which action should you take?

• A. Pinch nostrils together for at least 5 minutes in a sitting position
• B. Tilt the head back and sniff
• C. Blow the nose forcefully
• D. Give water to drink and wait

Answer: (A)

Stopping a nosebleed in a child comes from applying direct pressure to the soft part of the nose. Pinch the nostrils together with a finger and thumb and hold for at least five minutes. Have the child sit up and lean their head slightly forward to keep blood from running down the throat. Tilting the head back is not helpful because it can cause swallowing blood and doesn’t promote clotting. Blowing the nose or sniffing during this time can disturb any forming clot. Water won’t stop the bleeding immediately, though it can be offered after the bleeding is controlled. If bleeding lasts beyond several minutes of pressure, or follows an injury or is frequent, seek medical assistance.

Stopping a nosebleed in a child comes from applying direct pressure to the soft part of the nose. Pinch the nostrils together with a finger and thumb and hold for at least five minutes. Have the child sit up and lean their head slightly forward to keep blood from running down the throat. Tilting the head back is not helpful because it can cause swallowing blood and doesn’t promote clotting. Blowing the nose or sniffing during this time can disturb any forming clot. Water won’t stop the bleeding immediately, though it can be offered after the bleeding is controlled. If bleeding lasts beyond several minutes of pressure, or follows an injury or is frequent, seek medical assistance.