Which action is not recommended during management of a severe nosebleed?

• A. Pinch the nostrils and lean forward.
• B. Have the patient lie supine.
• C. Apply pressure to the bridge of the nose.
• D. Breathe through the mouth while pinching.

Answer: (B)

Managing a severe nosebleed centers on keeping the airway clear and stopping the flow with direct nasal compression. Lying the patient flat is not advised because blood can flow back into the throat, which can cause choking, gagging, or aspiration and make breathing harder. The safer approach is to have the person sit up and lean forward to prevent blood from entering the mouth or airway, then pinch the soft part of the nostrils and maintain pressure for several minutes while breathing through the mouth. This position and technique directly address where the bleeding usually originates and help control it quickly. If the bleeding continues after about 10–15 minutes of steady pressure, seek medical attention.