Questions and Answers on Respiratory System Related

Review Questions and Answers on Respiratory System related questions and content

Which action should the nurse take first when a client develops epistaxis?

  • A. Pack the affected nostril tightly with an epistaxis balloon.
  • B. Apply squeezing pressure to the nostrils for 10 minutes.
  • C. Obtain silver nitrate that may be needed for cauterization.
  • D. Instill a vasoconstrictor medication into the affected nostril.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct action is to apply squeezing pressure to the nostrils for 10 minutes. This helps control the bleeding by promoting clot formation. It is the initial intervention to stop the bleeding before considering other options. Packing the nostril with a balloon (Choice A) may worsen the bleeding. Obtaining silver nitrate (Choice C) for cauterization is not the first-line approach. Instilling vasoconstrictor medication (Choice D) should be considered after applying pressure if bleeding persists.