Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What action should be taken for bleeding from the nose and ear?

1. Apply pressure to stop the bleeding

2. Allow blood to drain

3. Insert gauze into the ear and nose

4. Immediately transport to medical facility

The correct answer is: Allow blood to drain

In cases of bleeding from the nose and ear, allowing blood to drain is often the most appropriate initial action. When blood drains, it is typically a natural response that can help prevent the accumulation of blood, which could lead to additional complications. This approach can also potentially minimize pressure within the affected areas, which is particularly important if there is a risk of a skull fracture or other serious head injury. It's important to maintain the patient's comfort and the integrity of their airway while observing for any signs of more severe injury, such as clear fluid draining (which could indicate cerebrospinal fluid). Although managing bleeding is crucial, in this situation, allowing for a natural drainage path can be advantageous as it avoids the risks associated with obstructing the passage with gauze, which could exacerbate the problem. Further assessment and medical evaluation are vital for proper diagnosis and management, especially if there are accompanying symptoms that suggest a more serious condition, but initially, letting the blood drain serves to address the immediate concern of managing bleeding while simultaneously monitoring the patient's overall condition.