What is an essential step in administering a nasal spray?

In administering a nasal spray, an essential step is to insert the tip of the spray into the nostril. This step is critical for ensuring that the medication is delivered directly where it is needed, allowing for effective absorption through the nasal mucosa. Proper placement of the spray tip helps avoid any wastage of the medication and maximizes its therapeutic effects.

While the other actions might seem relevant to medication administration or could have their own significance, they do not serve the primary function of delivering the medication effectively through the nasal route. For instance, swishing in the mouth pertains to oral medications rather than nasal applications, and while sitting upright may be a common position for comfort, it is not as fundamental as correctly inserting the tip into the nostril. Blowing the nose after administration could potentially clear the medication out of the nasal passages, which would not be advisable immediately after using a nasal spray.

Thus, the correct answer focuses directly on the crucial step needed to ensure proper administration of a nasal spray.