A nosebleed is a common condition. It is usually due to bleeding from inside the front of the nostrils.

More serious bleeding may result in considerable blood loss and, if the patient swallows blood, vomiting may result. You can help by knowing what to do.

• Sit the person down.
• Get them to breathe through their mouth, with their head tilted forward. Firmly pinch the entire soft part of the nose for 10 - 20 minutes. Repeat this if the bleeding does not stop.
• Call 111 for an ambulance if the bleeding is very heavy.
• When the bleeding stops tell the person not to blow their nose for a few hours, because this may restart the bleeding.

To test your knowledge and learn the basics of giving First Aid, why not try our free fun online programme at everydayhero.org.nz? For comprehensive First Aid information please refer to the St John Emergency Handbook. You can also ensure you are ready to help by completing a St John First Aid course.