Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 91%
Simulated
The nurse is caring for a client currently taking oxymetazoline. Which of the following statements should the nurse include regarding oxymetazoline?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Limit use of the drug to 3 days to prevent rebound nasal congestion. Oxymetazoline is a topical decongestant used to relieve nasal congestion. Prolonged use can lead to rebound congestion, where the nasal passages become more congested when the medication is stopped. Limiting use to 3 days helps prevent this rebound effect. Choice B is incorrect as oxymetazoline is not known to cause drowsiness, so it can be taken at any time. Choice C is incorrect because the effects of oxymetazoline are usually seen within minutes, not a week. Choice D is incorrect as oxymetazoline is not used for asthma but for nasal congestion.