A patient says, "I have such bad seasonal allergies. Is there anything I can take to keep them from happening?" What information should the nurse provide?

Question

1. "Some antihistamines can help prevent onset of allergies."
2. "Some patients find that intranasal corticosteroids help prevent their allergies."
3. "Drugs that are mast cell stabilizers may help you avoid your seasonal allergies."
4. "Oral decongestants can help you prevent allergies."
5. "Nasal decongestants are very good at preventing allergic response."

Answer 1

1,2,3
Rationale 1: Antihistamines are "preventers" of allergies.
Rationale 2: Intranasal corticosteroids are "preventers" of allergies.
Rationale 3: Mast cell stabilizers are "preventers" of allergies.
Rationale 4: Oral decongestants are "relievers" of allergic symptoms.
Rationale 5: Nasal decongestants are "relievers" of allergic symptoms.

Global Rationale: Antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids, and mast cell stabilizers are "preventers" of allergies. Oral and nasal antihistamines are "relievers" of allergic symptoms.