Page 1742 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

Table 52-4

Pulmonary Valve Disorders

Box 52-8

Client Instructions Following Valve Replacement

▪ Adequate rest is important, and fatigue is common.
▪ Anticoagulant therapy is necessary if a mechanical prosthetic valve has been
inserted.
▪ Instruct the client concerning hazards related to anticoagulant therapy and to
notify the primary health care provider (PHCP) or cardiologist if bleeding or
excessive bruising occurs.
▪ Instruct the client concerning the importance of good oral hygiene to reduce the
risk of infective endocarditis.

▪ Brush teeth twice daily with a soft toothbrush, followed by oral rinses.
▪ Avoid irrigation devices, electric toothbrushes, and flossing, because these

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