Where should epistaxis education be focused? A comparative study between the public and healthcare workers on knowledge of first aid management methods of epistaxis

Background: Epistaxis can be life-threatening. Simple first aid management can stem bleeding. This study compared knowledge of first aid management methods of epistaxis between the general public and healthcare workers.

Method: A cross-sectional study of 100 healthcare workers and 103 adult members of the public was conducted at a large London teaching hospital. Respondents completed a survey assessing knowledge on nasal pinching site, head tilt and appropriate adjunct treatment use for first aid management of epistaxis.

Results: Twenty-four per cent and 68 per cent of healthcare workers compared with 25.2 per cent and 37.9 per cent of the public answered correctly on nasal pinching position and head tilt position, respectively, with a statistical difference for head tilt position. Two per cent, 2 per cent and 24 per cent of healthcare workers mentioned ice use on the nose, ice use in the mouth or ice use but not site, respectively, compared with 0 per cent, 0 per cent and 4.9 per cent of the public, with a statistical difference for ice without site.

Conclusion: Healthcare workers and the public lack knowledge on first aid management of epistaxis. Improved education on first aid management is required, targeting healthcare workers and the public.