Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

For a patient with an anterior nosebleed, the most suitable initial management is to:

1. Lean him forward and pinch his nostrils together

2. Apply ice to the back of the neck

3. Lay him flat and apply pressure to the bridge of the nose

4. Encourage swallowing to stop the bleeding

The correct answer is: Lean him forward and pinch his nostrils together

The most suitable initial management for a patient with an anterior nosebleed is to lean him forward and pinch his nostrils together. This technique serves several important purposes in the management of nosebleeds. Leaning forward helps to minimize the risk of blood flowing back into the throat, which can lead to swallowing blood or aspirating it into the lungs, potentially causing choking or respiratory issues. Pinching the nostrils together applies direct pressure to the site of the bleeding, which can help to constrict the blood vessels involved and promote clot formation. This method is universally recommended as an effective first aid technique for controlling anterior nosebleeds. It allows gravity to assist in controlling the bleeding while the patient remains in a safer position. Other interventions, such as applying ice to the neck or laying the patient flat, do not directly address the source of the bleeding and may even exacerbate the situation. Encouraging swallowing could lead to complications without effectively managing the bleed. By using the forward-leaning position and pinching the nostrils, you can take immediate, effective action to help control the nosebleed.