Question

The nurse is caring for a client after cardiac surgery who has been prescribed protamine sulfate. Which finding indicates that the treatment is having the intended effect?

The international normalized ratio (INR) is trending down.

The bleeding from the surgical site has slowed.

The client reports decreased chest pain.

The respiratory rate is increased.

Answer 1

Protamine sulfate is used to reverse the effects of heparin after cardiac surgery, and its effectiveness is indicated by reduced bleeding from the surgical site, confirming it as the intended effect.

Step-by-step explanation:

The treatment with protamine sulfate is intended to reverse the effects of anticoagulants, particularly heparin, which is often used during cardiac surgeries to prevent excessive clotting. When considering the options provided, the finding that would indicate that protamine sulfate is having the intended effect would be that the bleeding from the surgical site has slowed. This effect is due to the neutralization of heparin, leading to a reduced risk of bleeding as a result of responsible usage. Protamine sulfate acts quickly once administered, and its effectiveness can be seen within 5 minutes, often through signs of reduced bleeding.