A client is prescribed an intranasal corticosteroid. What should the nurse include in client education about this drug?

Question

1. "You may feel a burning sensation when using this drug."
2. "This drug will be most effective if used only when symptoms are present."
3. "Be careful of how hard you squeeze the container as you can inadvertently give yourself too much medication for one dose."
4. "This medication may dry out your nasal passages enough to cause nosebleed."
5. "Do not eat licorice while taking this drug."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1,4,5
Rationale 1: The most frequently reported adverse effect of this drug is an intense burning sensation in the nose occurring immediately after spraying.
Rationale 2: The drug often takes 1 to 3 weeks to achieve peak response and should be started in advance of expected need.
Rationale 3: The medications are provided in metered-spray devices.
Rationale 4: Excessive drying of the nasal mucosa may occur, which leads to epistaxis.
Rationale 5: Licorice may potentiate the effects of corticosteroids.