Question

A patient with diabetes mellitus who has multiple infections every year needs a mitral valve replacement. What is the most important preoperative teaching the nurse should provide to prevent a cardiac infection postoperatively?

a. Avoid sick people and wash hands.
b. Obtain comprehensive dental care.
c. Maintain hemoglobin A1 c below 7%.
d. Coughing and deep breathing with splinting

Answer 1

The most important preoperative teaching for a diabetic patient requiring mitral valve replacement to prevent postoperative cardiac infection is to obtain comprehensive dental care to eliminate potential sources of bacterial infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important preoperative teaching to prevent a cardiac infection postoperatively for a patient with diabetes mellitus who needs a mitral valve replacement is to obtain comprehensive dental care. It is well-documented that oral health has a significant impact on the risk of developing endocarditis, especially in individuals with heart valve problems. Since bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream during dental procedures and potentially colonize the new valve, ensuring optimal dental health before surgery can reduce the risk of infection. In addition to this, measures such as avoiding sick people, washing hands frequently, and maintaining hemoglobin A1c below 7% to manage diabetes, are also crucial postoperative practices alongside prophylactic antibiotic treatment as recommended by the American Heart Association. However, the initial focus should be on dental health to eliminate potential sources of infection.