RCIS Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Exam Prep

Administering Protamine to a patient taking NPH insulin is inadvisable due to its potential effects on insulin pharmacology. Protamine is a protein that is commonly used to reverse the effects of heparin, an anticoagulant. It can also have an interaction with insulin formulations.

NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn) insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that already contains protamine as part of its formulation to prolong the insulin's action. When protamine is administered in addition to NPH, it may further prolong the duration of action of the insulin, leading to an increased risk of hypoglycemia. Therefore, it's crucial to avoid administering protamine to ensure safe blood glucose management in patients receiving NPH insulin.

While the other options, such as Insulin Glargine, Metformin, and Glucose, can be safely used alongside NPH insulin under proper medical supervision, Protamine introduces a risk that can complicate the patient's treatment plan.