Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of First Aid for Epistaxis Among the General Population in the Jazan Region of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, is a widespread medical condition that can be effectively managed with appropriate first aid. Understanding the general public's knowledge and practices about this is crucial. Objectives This study sought to evaluate the awareness and practice regarding first aid for epistaxis within the general population of the Jazan region in Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional survey was administered from April through June 2023, using a questionnaire that covered sociodemographic factors, knowledge of epistaxis, first aid practices for epistaxis, and any previous training received. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with chi-square tests to evaluate the variables' associations. Results The questionnaire was completed by 622 participants, predominantly females, Saudis, and individuals from the age group of 18 to 25 years. It was found that 60% of the participants had experienced epistaxis, but only 52% had received prior first aid training. Although the majority (91.8%) accurately defined epistaxis, a mere 40.8% correctly identified all the steps for first aid management of epistaxis. There was a notable insufficiency in understanding the causes, risk factors, and appropriate first aid steps. Participants' knowledge was evenly split, with approximately half exhibiting low knowledge (49.70%) and the remainder showing high knowledge (50.30%). Certain sociodemographic factors such as older age (p=0.028), Saudi nationality (p=0.045), and higher education (p=0.001) were linked with more experiences of epistaxis. Conversely, younger age (p=0.002), female gender (p=0.036), single status (p=0.001), prior experience with epistaxis (p=0.001), and higher overall knowledge (p=0.001) were associated with a higher likelihood of having received first aid training. Conclusions The study reveals significant gaps in the knowledge and practices of first aid for epistaxis among the general population in the Jazan region. Public awareness campaigns and educational programs are urgently needed, particularly for specific groups. Enhancing first aid knowledge could help alleviate the impacts of epistaxis. Further research is required to develop effective educational interventions.

Awareness of First Aid Management of Epistaxis in Children Among Parents in Arar, Saudi Arabia

“…Each correct answer is given a score of one, and the maximum score is 12. The designed Arabic version of the questionnaire was prepared by reviewing the relevant literature [8][9][10], and a panel of experts in emergency medicine, first aid, and public health ensured its content validity to measure what it is intended to measure. The experts provided feedback on the relevance and clarity of the questions, and any raised concerns have been made accordingly.…”

“…Recognizing the need for first aid management, parents must understand the steps involved in stopping the bleeding and providing comfort to their children. Recent studies have shown that while parents are generally aware of first aid measures for epistaxis, their knowledge and confidence in executing these measures remain suboptimal [ 8 , 9 ]. In a cross-sectional study conducted at government primary healthcare centers in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, a province in Saudi Arabia, findings revealed that only 27.9% of parents accurately responded when asked about the correct course of action to take for a case of epistaxis [ 10 ].…”

Knowledge and awareness of the Saudi general public toward epistaxis: a cross-sectional study

“…A recent study in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, revealed that the overall knowledge of proper epistaxis first aid was poor, with only 437.1% participants demonstrating good knowledge ( 14 ). Similarly, another study revealed significant gaps in the knowledge and practices of first aid for epistaxis among the general population in the Jazan region, Saudi Arabia ( 15 ). In another study in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the general public’s practices and knowledge were found to be adequate.…”