Assessment of Public Knowledge and Awareness on First-Aid Management of Epistaxis in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND

Epistaxis is a common medical problem requiring first aid. However, public awareness of proper first-aid techniques for epistaxis is limited. This study assessed the knowledge and attitudes toward first-aid epistaxis management among the general population in the Makkah region.

METHODS

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 1,259 participants from various regions in Makkah. The survey assessed participants' epidemiological information, experience with epistaxis, and knowledge of proper first-aid techniques. The knowledge scores were calculated and categorized as either good or poor. Associations between the variables and predictors of good knowledge were analyzed.

RESULT: Overall knowledge of proper epistaxis first aid was poor, with only 467 (37.1%) demonstrating good knowledge. Women, healthcare workers, and those with prior epistaxis showed higher odds of having good knowledge than their counterparts. Relatives/friends and social media were cited as the main knowledge sources, rather than healthcare providers.

CONCLUSION

Public awareness of appropriate first-aid epistaxis techniques in Makkah is inadequate. Targeted educational interventions involving healthcare providers are needed to improve the first-aid management of this common medical issue.