The initial management of epistaxis.

Epistaxis affects up to 60% of people. The basic first aid management of epistaxis is clearly stated in the literature and guidelines. Anecdotal evidence would suggest that these principles are not understood by patients and are not being conveyed to patients by their doctors. The aim was to assess current knowledge of epistaxis first aid management and identify the principle source of education in epistaxis control. This was a single centre cross-sectional study. The study population included those presenting to otolaryngology outpatients with epistaxis. 20 patients participated in this study over a 7 month period. Five (25%) patients did not use compression during an episode of epistaxis. Nine (60%) patients that used the compression technique failed to compress the lower one-third of the nose. Only two (10%) of patients identified their GP as having taught them first aid for epistaxis. Knowledge of epistaxis management is poor. Education regarding the basic principles of first aid for epistaxis may reduce morbidity and unnecessary consultations from health professionals.