Administration should include
- knowledge of the purpose of nasal medications to treat sinus infections, seasonal allergies, pain, or congestion due to colds
- following the procedures for nasal drops:
- Provide for client privacy and explain the procedure.
- Verify the medication order for accuracy with the MAR and read the label three times.
- Wash your hands.
- Put on gloves.
- Make sure the medication is at room temperature.
- Instruct the client to gently blow their nose.
- Instruct the client to sit or lie down and tilt their head back.
- Drop the prescribed number of drops into the client’s nose.
- Instruct the client to remain in the same position for a few minutes.
- Replace the cap.
- Wash your hands and properly dispose of gloves, if wearing.
- Document accurately on the MAR.
- following the procedures for nasal sprays:
- Provide for client privacy and explain the procedure.
- Verify the medication order for accuracy with the MAR and read the label three times.
- Wash your hands.
- Put on gloves.
- Make sure the medication is at room temperature.
- Instruct the client to gently blow their nose.
- Instruct the client to hold their head upright and slightly tilt the head forward.
- Instruct the client to use a finger to close the nostril not receiving medication and to breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth.
- Insert the spray nozzle no more than one-quarter inch into the nostril with tip pointed to the back outer side of the nose.
- Spray firmly and quickly.
- Remove the spray bottle and instruct the client to tilt their head back for several seconds to aid penetration of the drug.
- Instruct the client to avoid blowing their nose for 15 minutes.
- Replace the cap.
- Wash your hands and properly dispose of gloves if wearing.
- Document accurately in the MAR.
Note: These medications are best if they are administered by the client, especially the nasal sprays because they require hand/breathing coordination.