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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Muffled heart sounds are associated with pericardial effusion or tamponade, not infective endocarditis.
B. Palpitations can occur but are not a classic sign of infective endocarditis.
C. Hives suggest an allergic reaction, not endocarditis.
D. Splinter hemorrhages (tiny, red-brown streaks under the nails) are a classic sign of infective endocarditis due to small emboli from the infected heart valves.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. An INR of 2 is within the therapeutic range for anticoagulation but is more relevant for warfarin therapy rather than heparin.
B. An aPTT of 80 seconds is slightly elevated but not immediately life-threatening. The therapeutic range for heparin is typically 1.5 to 2.5 times the normal value (approximately 60-80 seconds).
C. Sudden weakness of one arm and leg suggests a possible embolic stroke, which is a serious complication of atrial fibrillation. This requires immediate assessment and intervention.
D. An irregular heart rate without P waves is characteristic of atrial fibrillation but is not the most urgent concern compared to potential stroke symptoms.
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