When counseling patients on the proper use of nasal sprays, direct them to blow their nose immediately before and after the dose is administered.

Intranasal administration of corticosteroids or decongestants requires specific techniques to maximize mucosal absorption and minimize systemic ingestion. Proper positioning and preparation ensure the drug reaches the turbinates rather than the pharynx. Effective delivery relies on the medication remaining in contact with the nasal mucosa for a sufficient duration. Errors in technique, such as improper sniffing or nose blowing, can significantly reduce the therapeutic efficacy of the treatment. Rationale: A. True is incorrect because blowing the nose after administration would mechanically remove the medication from the nasal cavity. The goal of the spray is to facilitate local absorption through the respiratory epithelium. If the patient clears their nose immediately after spraying, the active ingredients are expelled, resulting in a sub-therapeutic dose and poor symptom control for the patient. B. False is the correct answer because while patients should blow their nose before administration to clear mucus, they must avoid doing so afterward. Clearing the passages initially allows for better surface contact with the medication. However, after the dose is given, the patient should avoid blowing their nose for at least 15 minutes to ensure the drug is fully absorbed.