Afebrile 6-month-old with severe nasal congestion is unable to feed or sleep well. what suggestions should the nurse make to the parents to relieve the infant's symptoms?

Use a cool mist humidifier in the room. The moist air will help relieve the nasal congestion. Also diffusing eucalyptus or peppermint essential oils will help or you can add the oils to a warm bath. The child needs to inhale them for them to be effective. The peppermint oil diluted with a carrier oil can also be rubbed on the feet and will help with the congestion and fever. Placing a cool ice pack on the back of the baby's neck will also help with fever. Saline spray is also very effective for relieving sinuses. Spray the baby's nose and then suction it.