If a client has taken large amounts of diazepam, which medication should the nurse anticipate administering?

In cases of benzodiazepine overdose, such as with diazepam, flumazenil is the specific antagonist that is used to reverse the effects. Flumazenil acts as a competitive inhibitor at the benzodiazepine binding site of the GABA-A receptor. By doing so, it can effectively counteract the sedative effects of diazepam and other benzodiazepines, leading to the restoration of normal consciousness and respiratory function when necessary.

It’s important to note that flumazenil should be used cautiously, particularly in patients who may have taken benzodiazepines for seizure control or those with a possibility of poly-drug overdose, as it can precipitate seizures in these populations. The rapid reversal of benzodiazepines can also result in anxiety and agitation, so careful monitoring is required after administration.

The other medications listed serve very different purposes and are not indicated for benzodiazepine overdose. Ondansetron is an antiemetic used to treat nausea and vomiting. Magnesium sulfate is often used in the management of eclampsia or certain types of seizures. Protamine sulfate is an antagonist used to reverse the anticoagulant effects of heparin. Each of these medications addresses specific conditions unrelated to the effects