What is the appropriate action for a nurse to take when a school-aged child has epistaxis?

Applying pressure at the bridge of the child's nose is the appropriate action to take when managing epistaxis, or nosebleeds, in a school-aged child. This technique helps to constrict the blood vessels in the nasal passages, allowing the bleeding to slow or stop. By applying pressure, the nurse encourages proper blood flow dynamics, reducing the chances of further bleeding.

In contrast, using ice on the neck or elsewhere may not effectively address the bleeding in the nasal area and could lead to discomfort without directly aiding the situation. Leaning back can cause blood to flow down the throat, which could lead to coughing or choking, rather than resolving the bleeding. Finally, using a cotton swab may not adequately apply the necessary pressure in the nasal cavity and could also irritate the sensitive tissues, potentially worsening the situation. Therefore, applying pressure at the bridge of the nose is the most effective and safest method for managing a child's epistaxis.