A patient is scheduled for surgery to replace the mitral valve with a biologic heterograft valve. What should the nurse include when instructing the patient about this surgery?

Question

Select all that apply.

1. There will be an audible click with this valve.
2. The valve will not need to be replaced.
3. Long-term anticoagulation therapy is not necessary.
4. The valve will likely need to be replaced in 15 years.
5. Long-term antibiotic therapy is needed after the surgery.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3, 4
Long-term anticoagulation therapy is not needed with a biologic valve. Biologic valves are less durable than mechanical valves; up to 50% must be replaced within 15 years. An audible click is associated with a mechanical valve. Mechanical valves do not necessarily need to be replaced. Long-term antibiotic therapy is not needed after valve replacement surgery.