A nurse is teaching a client about taking an expectorant to treat a cough. The nurse should explain that this type of medication has which of the following actions?

A. Dries mucous membranes: Expectorants do not dry secretions; instead, they work to thin mucus. Drying the mucous membranes would make coughing less effective and could worsen congestion. B. Stimulates secretions: Expectorants increase the production and hydration of respiratory tract secretions, which thins mucus and makes it easier to expel. This facilitates airway clearance and improves the effectiveness of coughing. C. Suppresses the urge to cough: Cough suppressants, or antitussives, reduce the cough reflex. Expectorants do not suppress coughing but enhance mucus clearance, so they serve a different therapeutic purpose. D. Reduces inflammation: Expectorants do not have anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation in the respiratory tract may persist, but thinning mucus aids in symptom relief by promoting clearance rather than reducing swelling.