# Parental first aid literacy in epistaxis: do parents know what to do?

## TL;DR

This study finds that many parents in Saudi Arabia lack proper knowledge of first aid for nosebleeds in children, highlighting the need for better education.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into parental first aid literacy for epistaxis in Saudi Arabia and identifies demographic factors influencing knowledge gaps.

## Key findings

- Only 15.8% of parents recognized posterior nosebleeds as life-threatening.
- Just 54.8% knew the correct position for managing nosebleeds.
- Geographic and demographic disparities were found in first aid knowledge.

## Abstract

Epistaxis is a common otorhinolaryngology emergency, especially among the pediatric population. While prompt first aid is essential, there is limited data on parents’ knowledge regarding its management in Saudi Arabia. This study assessed parental literacy in epistaxis first aid and its correlation with sociodemographic factors.

A cross-sectional online study was conducted from May to June 2023, targeting parents of children aged ≤12 years across Saudi Arabia. Using a structured questionnaire, data on demographic characteristics and epistaxis first aid knowledge were collected from 777 participants. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were utilized for analysis.

The majority of parents (79%) reported that their child had experienced epistaxis, and 72.7% considered it an emergency. However, knowledge gaps were evident: only 15.8% recognized posterior bleeds as life-threatening, and just 54.8% identified the correct position for managing epistaxis. Geographic disparities were noted, with parents in the South, East, and North showing lower literacy than those in the Western region. Additionally, male, non-Saudi, and postgraduate parents had reduced literacy regarding epistaxis prevention. A large proportion of parents relied on the internet for information, which may contribute to these gaps.

There is a significant need for targeted educational programs to improve parental knowledge of epistaxis first aid, particularly among specific demographic groups. Enhancing access to first-aid training and credible resources could improve emergency responses to epistaxis, mitigating risks and promoting safer outcomes for children.