Flashcards on Clinical Management of Epistaxis (Nosebleeds)
Clinical Management of Epistaxis (Nosebleeds) Guide for Students
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Epistaxis
33 cards
Card 1
Question: What initial self-care should a patient with epistaxis perform if bleeding recurs at home?
Answer: Lean forward and continuously pinch the lower third of the nose for 15 to 20 minutes; seek medical attention if bleeding is severe or persistent.
Card 2
Question: What is controversial regarding the use of systemic antibiotics when nasal packs are in place?
Answer: Whether systemic antibiotics should be prescribed to prevent local infection and toxic shock syndrome; evidence from review/trials did not show benefi
Card 3
Question: What is the association between hypertension and epistaxis described in the text?
Answer: A meta-analysis found an elevated risk of epistaxis in patients with hypertension (odds ratio 1.53; 95% CI, 1.18–1.99), but causality is uncertain.
Card 4
Question: Which professional guidelines on epistaxis evaluation and management are mentioned?
Answer: American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery clinical practice guideline (2020) and the American College of Cardiology expert consensus de
Card 5
Question: For a clinically stable patient with acute epistaxis, what immediate clinical actions are recommended?
Answer: Apply digital compression for 15 to 20 minutes and perform anterior rhinoscopy.
Card 6
Question: If a bleeding site is identified on anterior rhinoscopy, what treatment is indicated?
Answer: Electrocautery performed under local anesthesia.
Card 7
Question: Why might topical vasoconstrictors be avoided in some patients with epistaxis?
Answer: They may be avoided in patients with cardiovascular history (concern for adverse effects).
Card 8
Question: Why prefer resorbable nasal packing over nonresorbable in certain patients?
Answer: Resorbable packing is more comfortable and eliminates risk of prolonged recurrent bleeding after removal—important for patients on anticoagulants like
Card 9
Question: What steps are considered if bleeding persists despite cautery and resorbable packing?
Answer: Consider nonresorbable packing; consult about temporarily discontinuing warfarin; posterior packing, arterial ligation, or embolization if bleeding co
Card 10
Question: What discharge education is emphasized for patients treated for epistaxis?
Answer: Educate about indications to seek additional care, preventative measures, and home treatments for epistaxis.