|
Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version
Nose Trauma - Brief Version
What is a nose injury?
When a nose is hit, it often becomes bloody, bruised, and
swollen. In most cases it is not broken. Even when it is
broken, x-rays are not helpful. It's best to wait 5 days,
when the swelling is gone. If the nose then appears to be
crooked, you will probably need to see an ear-nose-throat
surgeon. For mild breaks of the nose, it works best to
treat the nose a few days later. Severe breaks of the nose
are often fixed the same day in the operating room.
How can I take care of my child?
- Bruises or swelling. Apply ice to the area for
20 minutes. One hour later apply ice again for
20 minutes. Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen as
necessary for pain. Do not give aspirin.
- Cuts or scrapes. Scrub the area with soap and water for
5 minutes. Then apply pressure for 10 minutes with a
very clean cloth (or sterile gauze if you have it) to
stop bleeding from the cut or scrape. If the scrape is
large, apply an antibiotic ointment and cover the scrape
with a Band-Aid for 1 day.
- Nosebleed. To stop a nosebleed, squeeze the soft parts
of the nose against the center wall for 10 minutes.
Call your child's doctor right away if:
- You are sure the nose is broken or crooked.
- The skin is split open and may need stitches.
- A nosebleed won't stop after 10 minutes of direct
pressure.
- Your child can't breathe through the nose.
Call your child's doctor during office hours if:
- The shape of the nose has not returned to normal after
5 days.
- A yellow discharge, increasing soreness, fever, or other
signs of infection occur.
- You have other concerns or questions.
|
