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IE Dental Prophylaxis — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

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HardAntimicrobial StewardshipIE Dental ProphylaxisSCE Infectious Diseases

A patient with a prosthetic valve asks whether NICE recommends routine antibiotic prophylaxis before an uncomplicated dental procedure. What is the correct answer?

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Correct answer: B — No; antibiotic prophylaxis against infective endocarditis is not routinely recommended primarily for dental procedures with review after review

The best answer is “No; antibiotic prophylaxis against infective endocarditis is not routinely recommended primarily for dental procedures with review after review”. NICE does not recommend routine prophylaxis; good oral health and prompt investigation of infection remain important, with individual specialist discussion for exceptional circumstances. “Yes, but only after age 65” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance. “Yes, but only for extraction rather than other invasive dental work” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance. “Use clindamycin before every dental appointment” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance. “Use amoxicillin before all dental cleaning” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance.

Reference: NICE CG64 infective-endocarditis prophylaxis recommendations: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg64/chapter/Recommendations