How is anterior epistaxis managed according to the material?

How is anterior epistaxis managed according to the material?

• A. Apply pressure for 5-30 minutes, moistened gauze with epi, then cauterize
• B. Nasal packing
• C. Let it bleed out
• D. Oral decongestants

Answer: (A)

Anterior epistaxis is managed by quickly stopping the bleed with direct mechanical control, then solidifying the stop with topical vasoconstriction and vessel cauterization when a source is visible. Start with firm, continuous pressure on the lower part of the nose for several minutes (the material notes a 5–30 minute window). This compression helps form a clot and reduces flow from the injured vessel. If available, applying gauze moistened with epinephrine provides local vasoconstriction, making bleeding easier to control and helping you locate the bleeding site. When the source is visible, cauterization—chemical or electrical—offers definitive hemostasis. If bleeding persists after these steps, nasal packing is a reasonable next move. Letting it bleed out is unsafe, and oral decongestants alone do not address the actual bleeding source.

Anterior epistaxis is managed by quickly stopping the bleed with direct mechanical control, then solidifying the stop with topical vasoconstriction and vessel cauterization when a source is visible. Start with firm, continuous pressure on the lower part of the nose for several minutes (the material notes a 5–30 minute window). This compression helps form a clot and reduces flow from the injured vessel. If available, applying gauze moistened with epinephrine provides local vasoconstriction, making bleeding easier to control and helping you locate the bleeding site. When the source is visible, cauterization—chemical or electrical—offers definitive hemostasis. If bleeding persists after these steps, nasal packing is a reasonable next move. Letting it bleed out is unsafe, and oral decongestants alone do not address the actual bleeding source.