Question

Which patients are at greatest risk of developing infective endocarditis? (Select all that apply.)

a. IV drug user
b. Patient with a myocardial infarction
c. Patient with a prosthetic mitral valve replacement, postoperative
d. Patient with mitral stenosis who recently had an abscessed tooth removed
e. Older adult patient with urinary tract infection and valve damage
f. Patient with cardiac dysrhythmias

Answer 1

Patients at higher risk for infective endocarditis include IV drug users, those with prosthetic heart valves, individuals with preexisting valvular diseases, and older adults with valve damage and a urinary tract infection. The options (a), (b), (c),(d), and (e) are correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

Patients at greatest risk of developing infective endocarditis include:

• IV drug users - IV drug use can introduce bacteria directly into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of endocarditis.
• Patients with a prosthetic mitral valve replacement, and postoperative - Prosthetic valves are at higher risk for endocarditis, often requiring treatments that include vancomycin, rifampin, and gentamicin due to the possibility of biofilm formation.
• Patient with mitral stenosis who recently had an abscessed tooth removed - Dental procedures can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, particularly dangerous for those with existing valve diseases.
• Older adult patients with urinary tract infection and valve damage - UTIs can spread bacteria, putting individuals with preexisting valve damage at a higher risk.

Patients with myocardial infarction or those with cardiac dysrhythmias are not specifically at higher risk for endocarditis unless they have other risk factors mentioned. Therefore, options (a), (b), (c),(d), and (e) are correct.