Oral Surgery · single question
A patient is bleeding excessively after an extraction. What should you do FIRST?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Apply pressure with gauze
✓ A) Apply pressure with gauze is the FIRST step.
The first and most important step in managing post-extraction bleeding is direct pressure with a folded gauze for 15–20 minutes of sustained biting pressure. This promotes clot formation. If pressure alone is insufficient, secondary measures include: placing absorbable gelatin sponge (Gelfoam), suturing, topical thrombin, or oxidized cellulose. Local epinephrine (in anesthetic) causes vasoconstriction but is not a primary hemostatic measure. Always start with the simplest, least invasive intervention first.
The first and most important step in managing post-extraction bleeding is direct pressure with a folded gauze for 15–20 minutes of sustained biting pressure. This promotes clot formation. If pressure alone is insufficient, secondary measures include: placing absorbable gelatin sponge (Gelfoam), suturing, topical thrombin, or oxidized cellulose. Local epinephrine (in anesthetic) causes vasoconstriction but is not a primary hemostatic measure. Always start with the simplest, least invasive intervention first.