When instructing a client about oxymetazoline nasal spray, what is the most important guideline the nurse should provide?

Oxymetazoline nasal spray is a topical decongestant commonly used to relieve nasal congestion due to colds, allergies, or sinusitis. One key guideline for clients using this medication is to limit its use to prevent rebound congestion, a condition where nasal congestion actually worsens after the medication is stopped. This can occur if oxymetazoline is used for more than three consecutive days, leading to a cycle of dependency on the spray for relief.

By instructing clients not to use the medication for more than three days, the nurse helps prevent this potential side effect, ensuring that the client can safely benefit from relief without developing a reliance on the medication.