Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 94%
Simulated
A gardener needs a decongestant because of seasonal allergy problems and asks the nurse whether he should take an oral form or a nasal spray. Which of these is a benefit of orally administered decongestants?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Absence of rebound congestion. Orally administered decongestants have a lower risk of causing rebound congestion compared to nasal sprays. This is because oral decongestants have a systemic effect, acting on the body as a whole, which helps avoid localized nasal tissue irritation that can lead to rebound congestion. Immediate onset (A) is more associated with nasal sprays due to direct application to the nasal passages. Shorter duration (C) and more potent effect (D) are not necessarily benefits of orally administered decongestants.