Epistaxis Management in an Emergency Department.

Abstract

Epistaxis is a common nasal emergency with an estimated 1.7 per 1,000 visits annually to emergency departments. Treatment options depend on the severity of epistaxis, frequency, and equipment availability in the provider's setting. In addition, the treating provider should look at comorbidities, medications, and perform a thorough history and physical exam to attempt visualization of the source of epistaxis. Managing epistaxis should begin with the least to most invasive options, beginning with pressure and application of topical vasoconstrictors and moving to more invasive procedures should hemostasis not be achieved. This article describes a case of a 76-year-old male with a new onset of epistaxis that presents to an emergency department. This article will review the patient's emergency department visit, two follow-up visits, and epistaxis to increase the skills of emergency Advanced Practice Registered Nurses.