What should you instruct a resident to do after administering nasal drops?

After administering nasal drops, instructing the resident to tilt their head back and lay down for a few minutes is important for ensuring that the medication effectively reaches the targeted area within the nasal passages. This position helps facilitate the absorption of the medication and maximizes its therapeutic effects. Tilting the head back allows the drops to flow towards the posterior nasal cavity, where they can act on the mucous membranes more effectively.

This instruction also assists in minimizing the likelihood of the medication draining out or being expelled, enhancing the overall efficacy of the treatment. Maintaining this position for a few minutes allows sufficient time for the medication to take effect and be properly absorbed.

In contrast, mixing the drops with water, administering more drops, or drinking a glass of water does not contribute positively to the effectiveness of the nasal drops and can interfere with their proper absorption.