A client frequently takes diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to alleviate his upper respiratory symptoms associated with allergies. Which of the following mechanism of actions applies to diphenhydramine (Benadryl)?

A) Administer albuterol via inhalation device to the client: This task cannot be delegated to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). Administering medications, especially inhaled bronchodilators like albuterol, requires a licensed nurse to ensure proper technique, monitor the client for adverse effects, and assess the effectiveness of the treatment.

B) Performing initial respiratory assessment to determine baseline respiratory rate: This task also cannot be delegated to the UAP. Assessing respiratory status, including determining baseline respiratory rate and identifying any abnormalities, requires critical thinking and clinical judgment that a nurse must perform.

C) Assist the client with oral hygiene following inhaled corticosteroid administration by the nurse: This task can be delegated to the UAP. Assisting with oral hygiene is within the scope of practice for UAPs, and it is essential after administering inhaled corticosteroids to help prevent oral thrush and maintain oral health.

D) Assess the client's lung sounds to determine if wheezing is present: This task cannot be delegated to the UAP. Assessing lung sounds is a critical nursing assessment that requires the knowledge and skills of a licensed nurse to interpret findings and make clinical decisions based on the assessment.

A. Limit use of the drug to 3 days to prevent rebound nasal congestion: Oxymetazoline is a topical nasal decongestant that can lead to rebound congestion if used for more than three consecutive days. This condition, known as rhinitis medicamentosa, can worsen nasal congestion rather than alleviate it, making it crucial for clients to adhere to this guideline.

B. This drug may be used in maintenance treatment for asthma: Oxymetazoline is not indicated for the maintenance treatment of asthma. It is a nasal decongestant, primarily used for temporary relief of nasal congestion due to colds or allergies, and does not address the underlying inflammation in asthma.

C. This medication may take up to a week to see effects: In fact, oxymetazoline provides rapid relief of nasal congestion, typically within minutes of administration. Clients should expect to feel its effects much sooner rather than having to wait a week, which can lead to misuse or overuse of the medication.

D. Take this drug at bedtime because it may cause drowsiness: Oxymetazoline is not known to cause drowsiness; rather, it works as a decongestant. Patients are usually advised to use it during the day as needed, and it should not be specifically recommended for bedtime use.