How to stop a nosebleed — Australian first aid steps

Reviewed by the Medibc First Aid Team — last updated July 2026. This is general first aid information, not a substitute for an accredited first aid course or professional medical advice. In an emergency, call 000.

Most nosebleeds (medically called epistaxis) are minor and can be stopped with simple first aid, even though they can look alarming. The key is to lean forward and apply steady pressure to the right part of the nose. According to healthdirect Australia, correct pressure stops most nosebleeds within about 10 minutes.

How to stop a nosebleed: step by step

  1. Sit up and lean slightly forward. Leaning forward stops blood running down the throat, which can cause coughing or vomiting.
  2. Pinch the soft part of the nose. Using thumb and finger, firmly pinch the lower, soft part of the nose (just below the bony bridge) and hold without letting go for 10 minutes.
  3. Breathe through your mouth and spit out any blood rather than swallowing it.
  4. Apply a cold compress to the bridge of the nose or the forehead if you have one — it can help slow the bleeding.
  5. After 10 minutes, release and check. If it is still bleeding, pinch again for another 10 minutes.
What not to do: don’t tilt the head backwards (blood runs down the throat), don’t pinch the hard bony bridge (pressure needs to be on the soft part), and don’t pack the nose with tissue or lie down.

Aftercare and preventing another nosebleed

Once bleeding stops, avoid blowing or picking the nose, heavy lifting and hot drinks for a few hours so the clot is not disturbed. Dry air, colds and nose-picking are common triggers; a little saline or a light smear of moisturising ointment inside the nostril can help prevent recurrence.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical care if a nosebleed does not stop after 20 minutes of correct pressure, is very heavy, keeps coming back, follows a head or face injury, or if you take blood-thinning medication. Go to your nearest emergency department for a heavy bleed that will not stop.

Nosebleed First Aid FAQs

How do you stop a nosebleed fast?

Sit up, lean forward and firmly pinch the soft part of the nose (below the bony bridge) for a full 10 minutes without releasing. Breathe through your mouth and add a cold compress. Most nosebleeds stop within 10 minutes.

Should you tilt your head back during a nosebleed?

No. Tilting back lets blood run down the throat, which can cause coughing, choking or vomiting. Always lean slightly forward.

How long should you pinch your nose?

Pinch continuously for 10 minutes without checking. If it is still bleeding, pinch for another 10 minutes.

When is a nosebleed an emergency?

Get medical help if bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes of pressure, is very heavy, follows an injury, keeps recurring, or you are on blood thinners. Go to your nearest emergency department for a heavy bleed.

Keep first aid essentials on hand. Stock a first aid kit and wound-care supplies for everyday bumps and bleeds — see our wound care guide. Fast shipping Australia-wide.

Source: healthdirect — Nosebleeds. In an emergency, call 000.

Published: July 03, 2026