What does an antidote do when administered to a patient?

The administration of an antidote is specifically designed to negate the harmful effects of poisoning. Antidotes work by counteracting the toxic effects of substances that have been ingested or otherwise introduced into the body. When an antidote is given, it can either neutralize the poison directly, block its effects, or facilitate its removal from the body. This is crucial in emergency medicine, where quick and effective intervention can save a patient's life and minimize long-term health consequences. Understanding the specific mechanisms of various antidotes is important for healthcare providers to ensure the appropriate treatment in cases of poisoning.

In contrast, the other choices pertain to different medical interventions and do not relate to the function of antidotes. Increasing infection resistance is more associated with vaccinations or antibiotics, reducing fever relates to antipyretic medications, and preventing blood clotting pertains to anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents. Each of these interventions serves distinct purposes and is employed in entirely different clinical scenarios.