Final answer:
The nurse should inform the client that nasal corticosteroids work locally to decrease inflammation and are used for long-term management of allergic rhinitis. They are not for immediate relief and should be taken consistently as prescribed for best results.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a client who experiences allergic rhinitis asks a nurse about nasal corticosteroids, the nurse should reply that the medication works locally and decreases inflammation. Nasal corticosteroids, such as those used in allergic rhinitis, help control the immune response by downregulating inflammatory responses which are triggered by allergens. These medications are typically not used for immediate relief as their effectiveness grows over time with regular use.
Nasal corticosteroids, like hydrocortisone creams for the skin, reduce local inflammation by inhibiting the production of substances like histamine that cause the symptoms of allergies. Unlike antihistamines, which are usually used for short-term relief of allergy symptoms like nasal congestion and sneezing, corticosteroids are used for long-term management to reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms.
Regarding the other options: 1) It's not typically necessary to clear the nasal passages after using a steroid nasal spray. 2) Corticosteroids should be taken consistently as prescribed rather than on an as-needed basis for chronic conditions like allergic rhinitis. 3) These medications do not start to work immediately but may take several days to become fully effective.