If an athlete comes to you with a bloody nose, what is your first action?

In the case of a bloody nose, the most immediate and effective action is to apply direct pressure to the nose. Putting gloves on and pinching the nose is a practical first step because it helps stop the bleeding by compressing the nasal blood vessels. This method allows for better management of the situation and reduces the risk of further injury or infection.

Ensuring comfort is important, but it should come after addressing the injury itself. While recommending rest can be beneficial for overall recovery, it does not effectively address the immediate issue of bleeding. Providing ice to the area can help reduce swelling or discomfort, but it is not the primary action that should be taken when dealing with a nosebleed; direct pressure is more critical for stopping the blood flow. Thus, the correct choice focuses on the necessary action to manage the emergency effectively.