Spray steroidal nasal spray toward the ears

When prescribing a steroid nasal spray, instruct the patient to angle the applicator toward the ipsilateral ear once inserted into the nose. This will prevent the medication from being sprayed onto the highly vascular nasal septum and prevent the annoying side effect of a bloody nose that occasionally accompanies the use of these medications. — Melissa Donais, RN, FNP-BC, Andover, Mass. (158-15)

These are letters from practitioners around the country who want to share their clinical problems and successes, observations and pearls with their colleagues. We invite you to participate. If you have something you would like to share, send us an email.

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