Small children frequently get nose bleeds as they have small blood vessels in their noses which dilate and burst when they get warm, this is particularly likely in warm weather, when they are rushing around, or at night when they snuggle under the bed clothes. Children often pick and poke their noses and are prone to running into things, all of which can result in bleeding noses.
If a child has a nose bleed:
- Sit them down.
- Grab something to catch the blood.
- Lean them forward pinching the bridge of the nose. Leaning the child forward whilst applying pressure to the nose will allow you to see when the bleeding has stopped and will avoid the blood trickling down the back of their throat which could make them sick. You should apply pressure to try and push the leaking blood vessel against the inside of the nose to stop it bleeding.
- Keep changing your grip until you have got to a point where no blood is coming out.
- Keep applying pressure for at least 10 minutes.
- Release pressure slightly and if it starts to bleed again hold for another 10 minutes and then another.
If it really won’t stop bleeding you will need medical help.
Advise them not to pick, poke or blow the nose. If it starts again you will have to apply pressure once more.
Special situation!
If the nose bleed has been caused by trauma, or a punch in the face, controlling the bleeding may be difficult but you need to try as loss of blood is dangerous. You should apply a wrapped ice pack, keep applying pressure and get medical help.
It is strongly advised that you attend a Practical First Aid course to understand what to do in a medical emergency. First Aid for life provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for medical advice. First Aid for Life is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made, or actions taken based on this information.