NCLEX Pediatric Practice Exam

After repair of Tetralogy of Fallot with a patch, there is prosthetic material in the heart. During the healing period, this material can serve as a site for bacteria to cling if a procedure creates bacteremia. To prevent endocarditis, antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for invasive procedures during the first six months after the surgery. After six months, prophylaxis is generally not needed unless there is a residual defect or another high-risk condition. So families should inform providers before invasive procedures for six months postoperatively.