Pinching the alae to stop a nosebleed

The initial attempt to tamponade a nosebleed involves the patient exerting pressure by grasping the alae distally (below the bony nasal bridge) and pinching them tightly against the septum such that the mucosal surfaces are tightly apposed, as is shown in the photographs above. This position should be held continuously (without releasing any pressure) for at least 10 minutes if the patient is attempting to stop a nosebleed at home.