What is an important discharge teaching point for endocarditis?

• A. Report fever and complete antibiotics
• B. Stop antibiotics when symptoms improve
• C. Skip follow-up if feeling better
• D. Avoid all physical activity

Answer: (C)

Discharge teaching for endocarditis centers on finishing the full antibiotic course and staying engaged with follow-up care. Endocarditis typically requires a prolonged antibiotic treatment, often given intravenously, to fully eradicate the infection and protect heart valves. Stopping antibiotics early increases the risk of relapse, treatment failure, and the development of antibiotic resistance. You should monitor for fever and other warning signs and report them promptly, because fever after therapy can indicate the infection is not completely cleared or has recurred. Keeping scheduled follow-up appointments, and any recommended repeat blood cultures or imaging, is crucial to confirm that the infection has been resolved and to check for potential complications such as valve damage or embolic events. Regular activity should be discussed with your provider; there isn’t a blanket directive to avoid all physical activity. Skipping follow-up misses an opportunity to verify recovery and to catch problems early.