A nose clip is a specialized device engineered to apply consistent pressure to the soft, lower part of the nose. This targeted compression helps stem the flow of blood during a nosebleed (epistaxis). Understanding how to correctly use this tool improves first aid management. This guide provides instructions for the proper application of a nasal clip to manage bleeding.
Initial Steps and Proper Positioning
Before applying the device, remain calm, as anxiety can raise blood pressure and potentially worsen the bleeding. The individual should immediately sit upright, as this posture reduces hydrostatic pressure in the veins of the nose. Proper positioning involves leaning the head slightly forward to prevent blood from trickling down the back of the throat where it can be swallowed.
Swallowing blood can lead to stomach irritation and vomiting, which disrupts the clotting process and restarts the nosebleed. If possible, gently blow the nose once to expel any large, loose blood clots. Removing these initial clots allows the clip to compress the actual bleeding vessel more directly when it is applied.
Applying and Removing the Nasal Clip
The effectiveness of a nose clip relies on its precise placement. Most nosebleeds (anterior bleeds) originate from Kiesselbach’s plexus, located on the septum in the lower, soft part of the nose. To target this area, position the clip just below the hard, bony bridge, ensuring compression is applied only to the soft, fleshy portion.
The clip compresses both nostrils and the central septum evenly, using padded surfaces to exert firm, continuous pressure. This steady external force allows the body’s natural coagulation process to seal the ruptured blood vessel. Confirm the clip is snug enough to stop the visible flow of blood, but not so tight that it causes pain or damage to the cartilage.
Manual compression using the thumb and index finger is a viable alternative, but the specialized clip offers consistent, unwavering pressure. This frees the individual to remain still and calm without the fatigue of holding the pressure. Once the bleeding has stopped, the clip must be removed with great care to avoid disturbing the fragile, newly formed clot.
To facilitate gentle removal, slide the clip straight off the nose rather than pulling it away abruptly, which can tear the fresh fibrin mesh. After removal, resist the temptation to check the nose by blowing or sniffing, as this mechanical disruption often causes immediate re-bleeding. If spotting or residual oozing is noticed, gently hold a clean tissue under the nose without re-applying pressure.
Duration, Post-Bleed Care, and When to Call a Doctor
Once the nasal clip is securely in place, it should remain undisturbed for 10 to 15 continuous minutes. Interrupting compression before this time often dislodges the clot before it has solidified, causing the bleeding to restart. Patience during this period is paramount to achieve successful hemostasis.
After the clip is removed and bleeding has ceased, careful post-bleed care is necessary to prevent recurrence. For the remainder of the day, avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or bending over at the waist, as these actions increase blood pressure in the head. Also, avoid blowing the nose, picking, or inserting anything into the nostrils for at least 24 hours.
Knowing when to seek professional medical attention is important. If the nosebleed continues heavily despite 20 minutes of continuous, proper compression, medical intervention is necessary. Consult a doctor immediately if the bleeding is unusually heavy, if you feel weak or dizzy, or if the nosebleed followed a head injury.