Current Practice in the First Aid management of epistaxis by nursing staff working at the emergency departments of Baghdad hospitals

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Research article

Volume 10, Issue 2,  2023.  Page 250-257    10.52113/1/2/2023-250-257

Authors
Baseem Natheer Abdulhadi 1

Correspondence author: baseem.n.abdulhadi@aliraqia.edu.iq
1 Aliraqia University - College of Medicine.
Received 30 August 2023; revised 27 November 2023; accepted 30 November 2023, available online 30 December 2023.
Copyright © 2023 Abdulhadi. This is article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

Abstract

In otolaryngology, epistaxis—nosebleeds—are prevalent and severe. It is estimated that 10% to 60% of people will have at least one serious episode in their lives. This research will question people on how they stop nosebleeds and compare their replies to the medically recommended practice. This cross-sectional study assessed 105 paramedics in Baghdad's Emergency Wards, focusing on their demographics, education, and experience in managing epistaxis (nosebleeds). Key evaluation areas included the patient's position, pressure application on the nose, duration and method of pressure, use of nasal packs, ice application, and decision-making about when to call specialists. Their skills were scored on a scale from 'Very Good' to 'Bad', providing insights into their proficiency and variations in epistaxis management practices. This study, conducted from October 2022 to June 2023 in Baghdad, involved 105 paramedics in Emergency Wards, predominantly with less than 5 years of experience. It focused on assessing their first aid measures for epistaxis (nosebleeds), revealing varied practices like positioning, nasal pressure, and use of ice. Only a small fraction demonstrated very good knowledge in these procedures. Statistical analysis indicated a significant correlation between the paramedics' gender and educational level with their proficiency in handling epistaxis, but not with their duration of work in the Emergency Ward. Inconclusion, this research illuminates Baghdad paramedics' first aid practices, identifying strengths and places for development, particularly in emergency medical protocols. To provide the best emergency treatment, paramedics need ongoing training.

Keywords: Practice, First aid, Epistaxis, Nursing, Staff working, Emergency departments

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Maki DF, Al-Ansary HA. Current practice in the first aid Management of epistaxis by nursing staff working at the emergency departments of Baghdad hospitals. Muthanna Medical Journal. 2023; 10(2):250-257.