What should a client do before administering nasal decongestant drops?

Before administering nasal decongestant drops, it is essential for the client to blow their nose gently. This action clears the nasal passages of mucus, which can obstruct the proper absorption and effectiveness of the medication. When the nose is clear, the decongestant can more effectively reach the nasal tissues, allowing for better treatment of congestion.

Drinking water, while generally beneficial for hydration, does not specifically prepare the nasal passages for the administration of drops. Lying down may not provide an effective position for the medication to work optimally as gravity can affect its distribution. Using a saline rinse is a good practice to moisten nasal passages, but it is not a necessary step immediately prior to using decongestant drops and may not be as effective as gently blowing the nose to remove any blockage. Thus, gently blowing the nose is the most appropriate step to take before using nasal decongestant drops.