Nose injuries

Foreign bodies in the nose can sometimes be expelled by asking the patient to close the unaffected nostril and blow forcefully through the blocked one. If the object is visible and loose, it may be removed carefully using forceps. If removal is not straightforward, no attempt should be made, and the patient must be referred to a doctor.

In cases of internal nasal injury where bleeding persists and cannot be controlled by simple methods, nasal packing may be required. This involves inserting ribbon gauze coated with petroleum jelly into the nostril using forceps. The gauze should be packed firmly but without excessive pressure and left in place for about 48 hours before being gently removed.

Fractures of the nose cannot be treated on board and require hospital care. The immediate management is limited to controlling bleeding. Any deformity or displacement of the nose must be corrected later in a medical facility.