HOSA Community Emergency Response Team) Skills Assessment (CERT) Practice

Controlling a nasal injury effectively involves reducing blood flow and stabilizing the situation until further medical assistance can be provided. The recommended method is to pinch the nostrils together and apply pressure on the upper lip. This technique helps to compress the bleeding vessels within the nose, which can significantly reduce the bleeding. It encourages clot formation and provides a mechanism to control the hemorrhage, which is a critical response in managing nasal injuries.

In contrast, lying down may not help control the bleeding and could potentially lead to blood flowing into the throat, increasing the risk of choking or aspiration. A cold compress on the forehead, while soothing, does not directly address the source of the bleeding or help to control it. Allowing the survivor to bleed without intervention could lead to further complications and does not provide the necessary care to address the injury effectively. Thus, pinching the nostrils and applying pressure on the upper lip is the most effective method for managing a nasal injury.