The emergency department nurse admits a client taking warfarin. The nurse observes multiple hematomas, and lab results show an elevated international normalized ratio (INR) of 7.2. Which medication should the nurse prepare to administer?

A. Protamine sulfate: Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin, not warfarin. It works by neutralizing the effects of heparin in cases of overdose or excessive anticoagulation. Since the client is taking warfarin, protamine would not address the elevated INR or the bleeding risk. B. Heparin: Heparin is another anticoagulant and would further increase the client's bleeding risk. Administering heparin to a patient with an INR of 7.2 and visible hematomas could worsen the coagulopathy and potentially lead to life-threatening hemorrhage. C. Vitamin K: Vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin toxicity and works by promoting the synthesis of clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X. In a client with an INR of 7.2 and signs of bleeding, administering vitamin K is the appropriate intervention to reverse warfarin’s effects and reduce the risk of further hemorrhage. D. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is not involved in the coagulation cascade and has no role in reversing the effects of warfarin. While it supports vascular health generally, it does not correct an elevated INR or treat active bleeding in clients taking anticoagulants.