Question

A client enters the hospital emergency department with a nosebleed. On assessment the client tells the nurse that the nosebleed just suddenly began. The nurse notes no obvious facial injury. Which is the initial nursing action?

A. Insert nasal packing.
B. Prepare a nasal balloon for insertion.
C. Place the client in a semi Fowler's position, and apply ice packs to the nose.
D. Sit the client down, ask the client to lean forward slightly, and apply pressure to the nose for 5 to 10 minutes.

Answer 1

The initial nursing action for a sudden nosebleed with no obvious facial injury is to sit the client down, ask them to lean forward, and apply pressure to the nose.

Step-by-step explanation:

The initial nursing action for a client who enters the hospital emergency department with a sudden nosebleed and no obvious facial injury is to sit the client down, ask the client to lean forward slightly, and apply pressure to the nose for 5 to 10 minutes.

This action helps to control and stop the bleeding by applying direct pressure to the source of the bleed and preventing blood from flowing back into the throat. Sitting the client down and leaning them forward helps to minimize the risk of blood flowing into the throat and potentially causing choking or aspiration.

Applying ice packs to the nose and placing the client in a semi Fowler's position may be done after the bleeding has stopped to help reduce swelling and discomfort.