First Aid Management Study on Epistaxis for Nursing Student Awareness

Background: Epistaxis, or nosebleed, is a common condition affecting individuals of all ages, with various causes including trauma, dry air, hypertension, and medication use. Effective first aid management is crucial in controlling bleeding and preventing recurrent episodes. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among nursing students at Al-Hussein bin Talal University from April to June 2023. A questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding epistaxis first aid management was administered electronically in Arabic. Results: Out of 284 nursing students surveyed, the majority were female (72.5%) and aged 20-25 years (81.7%). 64.8% reported personal experiences of epistaxis, and 92.2% had witnessed nosebleeds. 60% recognized epistaxis as a medical emergency. Direct nasal trauma was identified as the most common cause (89.1%), with hypertension and bleeding disorders also noted. While 60% knew the correct head position for first aid, only 51% demonstrated proper nose-pinching technique. 74% were aware of mouth-breathing during epistaxis management. However, 92.2% expressed a desire for further training in first aid, with 83.2% emphasizing the need for training among clinical staff. Discussion: The study highlights varying levels of knowledge and practice among nursing students regarding epistaxis first aid management. While some demonstrated awareness of proper techniques, gaps existed in areas such as compression duration and seeking medical care. Training programs and standardized protocols are recommended to enhance nursing students' proficiency in managing epistaxis. Conclusion: Nursing students at Al-Hussein bin Talal University exhibited a baseline understanding of epistaxis first aid measures, indicating their potential to assist patients effectively.