Valve disease

Question 1

Patient teaching regarding valvular heart disease should include which of the following?

a. Increase fluid intake to increase cardiac output.
b. Monitor and increase sodium intake to replace sodium lost with diuretics.
c. Increase daily activity until shortness of breath occurs.
d. Take prophylactic antibiotics before undergoing any invasive procedure.

Answer 1

ANS: D
Education for the patient with acute or chronic heart failure secondary to valvular dysfunction includes (1) information related to diet, (2) fluid restrictions, (3) the actions and side effects of heart failure medications, (4) the need for prophylactic antibiotics before undergoing any invasive procedures such as dental work, and (5) when to call the health care provider to report a negative change in cardiac symptoms.