Exploring knowledge of first aid in epistaxis-25 years on

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Emergency Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Epistaxis (nosebleeds) is a common ENT emergency.
• Previous studies show public ignorance of correct first aid for nosebleeds.
• This study re-evaluates first aid knowledge after 25 years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess current public and emergency department (ED) staff understanding of epistaxis first aid.
• To determine if knowledge has improved since 1998.
• To identify specific knowledge gaps and target populations for education.

Main Methods:

• Surveys distributed in UK ED waiting rooms, anticoagulation clinics, and staff rooms.
• Questions focused on correct nose pinch, head position, and nostril plugging.
• Prospective audit of first aid application in patients referred to ENT.

Main Results:

• 83% of the public and 64% of ED staff demonstrated incorrect epistaxis first aid.
• 77% of patients on anticoagulants/aspirin lacked correct technique.
• In 56% of reviewed cases, adequate first aid was not applied.

Conclusions:

• Significant lack of understanding of epistaxis first aid persists among the public and ED staff.
• Targeted education, particularly for healthcare professionals and patients on anticoagulation, is recommended.
• Improved first aid knowledge may decrease unnecessary emergency attendances for epistaxis.