Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

Protamine sulfate is administered to patients following cardiopulmonary bypass surgery to reverse the effects of anticoagulation, primarily caused by heparin used during the procedure. During cardiopulmonary bypass, heparin is utilized to prevent clot formation in the circuit and in the patient's bloodstream. After the bypass is completed, it is crucial to reverse heparin's anticoagulant effects to allow for normal blood coagulation and reduce the risk of postoperative bleeding.

Protamine sulfate works by binding to heparin, forming an inactive complex that no longer exerts its anticoagulant effect. This reversal allows the blood to return to its normal clotting ability, which is vital for recovery and reducing complications such as excessive bleeding.

The other options are not used for reversing anticoagulation after cardiopulmonary bypass. Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used primarily for pain management, amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic medication, and calcium chloride is used to correct hypocalcemia, but does not reverse the anticoagulant effects of heparin. Thus, protamine sulfate is the appropriate drug given in this context.