Post-Extraction Bleeding Management — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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EasyPharmacologyPost-Extraction Bleeding ManagementMFDS Part 1

An otherwise well adult reports active bleeding from an extraction socket two hours after an uncomplicated dental extraction. There is no airway compromise. What is the most important initial management step?

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Correct answer: A — Place saline-moistened gauze over the socket and apply firm biting pressure for 20 minutes

The correct answer is A. Initial management of post-extraction haemorrhage is direct local pressure: place gauze moistened with saline or water over the socket and ask the patient to bite firmly for 20 minutes without repeatedly checking it. This promotes formation and stabilisation of the clot. If bleeding persists, the socket should be assessed to identify the source, followed by measures such as a haemostatic dressing or suturing; urgent dental or hospital assessment may then be required. Immediate hospital admission is not necessary in a stable patient before local measures have been attempted. Antibiotics and topical antibiotic ointment do not produce haemostasis and are not indicated solely for early postoperative bleeding. Intravenous tranexamic acid is not routine first-line management for uncomplicated socket bleeding.

Reference: Scottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme (SDCEP), Management of Acute Dental Problems: Post-extraction haemorrhage, Initial management, current webpage accessed 26 August 2026. https://www.acutedentalproblems.sdcep.org.uk/guidance/management-of-oral-conditions/common-oral-conditions/post-extraction-haemorrhage/