A nurse is administering nasal decongestant drops for a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
A.
Assist the client to a side-lying position.
B.
Hold the dropper 2 cm (1 in) above the naris.
C.
Tell the client to blow her nose gently before the instillation.
D.
Instruct the client to stay in the same position for 2 min.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. Hold the dropper 2 cm (1 in) above the naris.
Explanation:
When administering nasal decongestant drops, proper technique is crucial to ensure effective delivery of the medication and minimize potential side effects. Here’s why holding the dropper 2 cm (1 in) above the naris is the best approach:
- Positioning of the Dropper: Holding the dropper 2 cm (1 in) above the naris ensures that the drops are administered directly into the nasal cavity without causing trauma or discomfort. This position allows for accurate placement of the medication while minimizing the risk of the dropper touching the nasal mucosa, which could potentially introduce contaminants.
- Client Positioning: Although assisting the client to a side-lying position (Option A) might be suitable for certain procedures, it is not necessary for the administration of nasal decongestant drops. The client can be in a sitting or semi-reclining position to facilitate the drops’ entry into the nasal passages.
- Blowing the Nose: Telling the client to blow her nose gently before instillation (Option C) is a recommended practice to clear any mucus that could impede the absorption of the medication. However, this step does not directly address the technique of administering the drops.
- Post-Administration Positioning: Instructing the client to stay in the same position for 2 minutes (Option D) is generally not required for nasal decongestant drops. The medication is absorbed through the nasal mucosa, and immediate movement is unlikely to affect its efficacy. However, it is essential to follow specific instructions given with the medication or by a healthcare provider.
In summary, holding the dropper 2 cm (1 in) above the naris (Option B) is the most appropriate action to ensure the proper administration of nasal decongestant drops. This technique helps deliver the medication effectively into the nasal cavity while avoiding potential issues related to positioning and post-administration procedures.