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. Reducing inflammation is the action of anti-inflammatory drugs, not expectorants. B. Drying mucous membranes is the effect of antihistamines or anticholinergics, not expectorants. C. Expectorants like guaifenesin work by stimulating respiratory tract secretions, which helps to thin mucus and makes it easier to cough up, clearing the airways. D. Suppressing the urge to cough is the action of antitussives, not expectorants.