Nasal Medication Administration

Key Points

• Nasal medications are administered into nostrils for local upper-airway effects.
• Safe administration requires route verification, correct nozzle direction, and contamination prevention.
• Patient coaching on pre- and post-spray technique improves dose absorption.

Equipment

• Ordered nasal medication device (spray/dropper)
• Tissues and gloves when indicated
• MAR and order verification access
• Hand hygiene supplies

Procedure Steps

1. Verify patient identity, medication, dosage, and nasal route order.
2. Perform hand hygiene and prepare supplies.
3. Instruct patient to blow nose gently before administration.
4. Prime spray bottle before first use until fine mist appears (if device requires priming).
5. Position head slightly forward per source instruction.
6. Insert nozzle into nostril and aim toward the ear/back of head, away from nasal septum.
7. Administer prescribed dose (for example one spray each nostril when ordered).
8. Instruct patient to inhale gently during spray delivery.
9. Advise patient to avoid blowing nose for several minutes after administration.
10. Document medication, dose, route, and patient response.

Common Errors

• Aiming toward septum → increased irritation and reduced delivery quality.
• Skipping priming on first use → inaccurate dose delivery.
• Immediate nose blowing after spray → reduced medication absorption.
• Route/dose mismatch at bedside → preventable medication error.

Related

• otic-medication-administration - Shares sensory-route instillation safety and contamination-control practices.
• ophthalmic-medication-administration - Reinforces route-specific positioning and no-touch applicator technique.