Epistaxis

Question 1

What causes epistaxis

Answer 1

Trauma, low humidity, infections, allergies, sinusitis, foreign bodies, chemical irritants, nasal surgery, anatomic malformations, tumors.

Question 2

Which medications prolong bleeding time

Answer 2

Aspirin, NSAIDs, warfarin, and other anticoagulants.

Question 3

What are anterior nosebleeds

Answer 3

Most common, occur in anterior nasal cavity, easier to see and treat

Question 4

What are posterior nosebleeds

Answer 4

more serious, occur deeper nasal cavity, impairs breathing and swallowing

Question 5

What is the treatment for anterior epistaxis

Answer 5

Nasal tampons soaked in anesthetic (lidocaine) and vasoconstrictors (epinephrine).
Absorbable materials: Gelfoam, Floseal.
Cauterization: Silver nitrate application.

Question 6

What do you monitor for epistaxis

Answer 6

LOC, heart rate, respiratory rate, and SpO₂

Question 7

What is the treatment for posterior epistaxis

Answer 7

Nasal sponges.
Epistaxis balloons (e.g., Rapid Rhino).
Foley catheters for tamponade.

Question 8

Why are antibiotics prescribed after back removal

Answer 8

to reduce risk of infection

Question 9

What do you do after pack removal

Answer 9

Gently cleanse the nares.
Lubricate with water-soluble jelly

Question 10

How do you prevent epistaxis

Answer 10

Use: Saline nasal spray, humidifier.
Sneeze with mouth open to reduce nasal pressure.

Question 11

What do you avoid after epistaxis

Answer 11

Aspirin and NSAIDs to prevent prolonged bleeding.
Vigorous nose blowing, strenuous activity, lifting, and straining for 4-6 weeks post-epistaxis.