When conducting discharge teaching for a client who has had a mechanical valve replacement, which information should the nurse plan to include?

A. It will no longer be necessary to take daily doses of anticoagulants: Clients with mechanical valves are at high risk for thromboembolism and require lifelong anticoagulation therapy. Stopping anticoagulants places the client at risk for valve thrombosis and systemic emboli such as stroke. B. The client will need to take an antibiotic before dental procedures: Prophylactic antibiotics are recommended before dental procedures to prevent infective endocarditis in clients with mechanical heart valves. C. Mechanical valves usually must be replaced within 7 to 10 years after insertion: Mechanical valves are highly durable and often last 20 years or more. Unlike bioprosthetic valves, they do not require routine replacement unless complications occur. D. Heparin injections will be required to decrease the incidence of clot formation: Heparin may be used short-term postoperatively, but long-term anticoagulation for mechanical valves is typically managed with oral agents like warfarin.