Acquired valvular heart disease
Congenital heart disease
is the most common cardiac problem in individuals with Down syndrome. Today,
most congenital heart defects either heal on their own or are surgically corrected
before the child starts kindergarten. However, as adults with Down syndrome
age, they may develop valvular dysfunction. Interestingly enough, valvular disease
is seen in adults with no history of congenital heart disease, as well as those
who were born with heart defects.
As many as 57% of the adults
with Down syndrome have mitral valve prolapse and 17% have valvular regurgitation.
Nurses working with these adults should determine the physicians recommendations
for prophylactic treatment for subacute bacterial endocarditis (SBE) and counsel
the patient when indicated. SBE prophylaxis involves preventive antibiotic therapy
before dental cleanings and other invasive procedures.