The nurse has just completed discharge teaching for a client who had aortic valve replacement with a mechanical heart valve. Which statement by the client indicates that teaching has been effective?

Question

The nurse has just completed discharge teaching for a client who had aortic valve replacement with a mechanical heart valve.  Which statement by the client indicates that teaching has been effective?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mechanical prosthetic valves are more durable than biological valves but require long-term anticoagulation therapy due to the increased risk of thromboembolism. The client should be taught ways to reduce the risk of bleeding. Teaching topics for clients on anticoagulants: Take medication at the same time daily Depending on medication, report for periodic blood tests to assess therapeutic effect Avoid any action that may cause trauma/injury and lead to bleeding (eg, contact sports, vigorous teeth brushing, use of a razor blade) (Option D) Avoid aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Limit alcohol consumption Avoid changing eating habits frequently (eg, dramatically increasing intake of foods high in vitamin K such as kale, spinach, broccoli, greens) (Option B) and do not take vitamin K supplements Consult with health care provider before beginning or discontinuing any medication or dietary/herbal supplement (eg, Ginkgo biloba and ginseng affect blood clotting and may increase bleeding risk) (Option A) Wear a medical alert bracelet indicating what anticoagulant is being taken (Option C) Early in the recovery period, care of the incision site typically includes washing with soap and water and patting it dry. Ointments (eg, vitamin E) may be applied after the incision has healed. Educational objective: Clients who are on anticoagulants should avoid aspirin, NSAIDS, and other over-the-counter or herbal products (eg, Ginkgo biloba) that can increase bleeding risk. They should also avoid behaviors that increase the risk of clotting (eg, eating excess green leafy vegetables).

The Nurse Has Just Completed Discharge Teaching for a Client