First Aid Guides
Bleeding - Nosebleed
How to treat bleeding from the nose
A nosebleed happens when one of the blood vessels in the lining of the nose bursts.
Nosebleeds are caused by infection, injury, allergic reaction, nose picking or an object pushed into the nostril.
Bleeding from the nose is common in children and is usually not serious. Seek medical attention if the bleeding is heavy, frequent or prolonged.
Start with DRSABCD
D - Danger
Assess the area to ensure its safe for yourself, others and the patient. Only proceed to help them if its safe.
R - Response
Check for a response. You can do this by asking their name and squeezing their shoulders.
- If they do respond: Make them comfortable and continue to follow the steps in this guide
- If they don't respond: Send for help immediately (call Triple Zero 000) and follow the DRSABCD Action Plan
First aid for a nose bleed
If bleeding is due to a head injury, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
For a child, check whether an object is present in the nostril. If there is, seek medical advice. Don't remove the object yourself as this may cause further damage.
Step 1: Calm and reassure
- Reassure them, especially children, as crying increases blood flow
- Help them to sit down and rest
Step 2: Apply firm pressure
- Ask them to use a finger and thumb to apply pressure on the soft part of the nose below the bridge. Apply pressure yourself if they are unable to do so
- Ask them to breathe through their mouth
- Apply a cold cloth or pack to their forehead and neck
Step 3: After 10 minutes, check bleeding
- After 10 minutes, release pressure and check to see bleeding has stopped
- Apply pressure again for another 10 minutes if bleeding still
- If bleeding continues after 20 minutes of pressure, call Triple Zero (000) and continue pressure
