Final answer:
Yes, Penicillin (PCN) is commonly administered before dental procedures to individuals with a history of rheumatic heart disease to prevent infective endocarditis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Prophylactic antibiotic therapy, such as Penicillin (PCN), is often recommended for individuals with a history of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) prior to undergoing dental procedures. This recommendation is based on the risk of bacterial endocarditis, an infection of the heart's inner lining, which can occur when bacteria enter the bloodstream during such procedures. The American Heart Association advises a treatment regimen of benzathine benzylpenicillin for ongoing prevention, with additional antibiotic prophylaxis specific to dental procedures in patients with RHD to further mitigate this risk. The answer to the question 'Is PCN given before dental procedures in someone with hx of rheumatic heart dz?' is generally yes, to prevent infective endocarditis.
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