Question

Which statement by a 23-yr-old patient who has mitral valve prolapse (MVP) without valvular regurgitation indicates that discharge teaching has been effective?

a. "I will take antibiotics before any dental appointments."
b. "I will limit physical activity to avoid stressing the heart."
c. "I should avoid over-the-counter drugs that contain stimulants."
d. "I should take an aspirin a day to prevent clots from forming on the valve."

Answer 1

The correct statement indicating effective discharge teaching is the avoidance of stimulant-containing over-the-counter drugs by a patient with MVP without valvular regurgitation, as these can worsen MVP symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement by a 23-year-old patient who has mitral valve prolapse (MVP) without valvular regurgitation that indicates effective discharge teaching is "I should avoid over-the-counter drugs that contain stimulants." This is because stimulants can exacerbate the symptoms of MVP and potentially increase heart rate, which may not be advisable in this condition. Physical activity does not generally need to be limited unless specified by a healthcare provider, and the use of antibiotics before dental procedures has changed and is no longer routinely recommended for patients with MVP in the absence of regurgitation or other risk factors. As for aspirin therapy, it is generally prescribed as a preventative measure in patients at increased risk for coronary artery disease, and not typically for patients with MVP without additional risk factors.