Question

A 50-year-old Aboriginal woman from a remote community with known rheumatic heart disease (moderate mitral regurgitation) presents with progressive exertional dyspnoea and orthopnoea. She has had poor adherence to secondary prophylaxis. Which statement best reflects a key principle of her ongoing management?

Accepted Answer

Regular echocardiographic surveillance and early cardiology referral are essential

Answer

Specialist review can be safely delayed if she feels better after diuretics

Answer

Secondary penicillin prophylaxis can be ceased once valve damage is established

Answer

Anticoagulation is unnecessary in rheumatic mitral regurgitation

Answer

Her care should be managed solely via telehealth due to remoteness

Practice question