American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is a significant risk factor to monitor for changes in patients with valve disease?

1. Blood pressure

2. Heart rate

3. Clinical symptoms

4. Weight

The correct answer is: Clinical symptoms

Monitoring clinical symptoms in patients with valve disease is essential because changes in these symptoms can indicate the progression of the disease or the development of complications. Patients may report symptoms such as dyspnea, fatigue, palpitations, or signs of heart failure, which are direct reflections of the heart's ability to manage the increased workload or abnormal blood flow caused by valve dysfunction. As the valve condition worsens, patients may experience new or worsening symptoms that require prompt evaluation and intervention. Identifying these changes early can be critical in managing the patient's condition, adjusting treatment plans, and potentially determining the need for surgical intervention. Thus, closely monitoring clinical symptoms is fundamental in delivering appropriate and timely care to individuals with valve disease. While blood pressure, heart rate, and weight are important clinical parameters to observe in these patients, the direct connection of clinical symptoms to the patient's overall heart function makes it particularly significant in this context.