A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client diagnosed with infective endocarditis with vegetation on the tricuspid valve. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Avoid sick contacts
You will require prophylactic antibiotics prior to dental procedures.
You can discontinue your antibiotics once you start feeling better.
Avoid physical activity for the next six months to allow your heart to heal completely.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Avoiding sick contacts is generally a good practice, but it is not the primary concern for a client with infective endocarditis. The focus is on preventing bacterial infections that could enter the bloodstream and affect the heart valves.
B. Prophylactic antibiotics are required before dental and invasive procedures to prevent bacterial endocarditis recurrence. The bacteria that cause infective endocarditis can enter the bloodstream through procedures that involve mucosal surfaces.
C. Discontinuing antibiotics when feeling better is incorrect. Infective endocarditis requires a full course of IV antibiotics, often lasting 4 to 6 weeks, to fully eradicate the infection and prevent complications.
D. Avoiding physical activity for six months is unnecessary unless the client has severe cardiac complications. However, clients should monitor for symptoms such as fatigue and consult their provider before engaging in strenuous activities.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. First-degree AV block is characterized by a prolonged PR interval but does not typically present with irregular palpitations or a pulse deficit.
B. Sinus tachycardia causes a rapid but regular rhythm, whereas atrial fibrillation is irregularly irregular.
C. Atrial fibrillation is the correct answer. It is characterized by an irregular heart rate, absence of distinct P waves on an ECG, and a pulse deficit due to ineffective atrial contractions leading to incomplete ventricular filling.
D. Sinus bradycardia presents as a slow, regular heart rate rather than a rapid, irregular rhythm with a pulse deficit.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Dyspnea is the priority finding as it may indicate heart failure or pulmonary embolism, both of which are life-threatening complications of infective endocarditis.
B. Anorexia is a common symptom but is not an immediate threat to the client's condition.
C. Malaise is a general symptom of infection but does not require urgent intervention.
D. Fever is a hallmark sign of infection but is not as critical as assessing for complications such as heart failure or embolic events.
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