Question

A client with a history of mitral valve prolapse is admitted because of fever and dyspnea on exertion, and is diagnosed with acute infective endocarditis. During the admission assessment, the nurse observes multiple areas of petechiae on the client's skin. Which intervention should the nurse include in the client's plan of care? Select all that apply.

a. Monitor cardiac rhythm via telemetry
b. Report changes in pre-existing murmurs
c. Schedule rest periods between activities
d. Maintain record of fluid intake and output
e. Initiate contact transmission precautions

Answer 1

For a patient with acute infective endocarditis, a nurse should include scheduling rest periods and initiating contact transmission precautions as part of the care plan.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client with a history of mitral valve prolapse who is diagnosed with acute infective endocarditis presents multiple petechiae, a symptom of vascular inflammation linked to both acute and subacute forms of the condition. Acute infective endocarditis is characterized by a rapid progression, often leading to severe heart valve damage if left untreated. In contrast, subacute bacterial endocarditis develops more slowly, with vegetations forming on the valves over time.

In caring for a patient with acute infective endocarditis, a nurse should implement interventions to reduce the strain on the heart and prevent the spread of infection. This entails scheduling rest periods between activities, reducing exertion to decrease the cardiovascular load, and initiating contact transmission precautions to prevent nosocomial infections.