Medical Emergencies · single question

A child who underwent COMPLETE surgical repair of tetralogy of Fallot as an infant now needs dental treatment. The best step is to:

  1. Premedicate with antibiotics and proceed without consultation
  2. Consult/refer to the cardiologist to determine how to proceed
  3. Treat with no special precautions
  4. Defer all dental care indefinitely
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Consult/refer to the cardiologist to determine how to proceed

  • A. Whether prophylaxis is needed depends on residual defects/prosthetic material — confirm with the cardiologist first.
  • B. Correct. A medical (cardiology) consult clarifies endocarditis-prophylaxis needs and safety; the other options make assumptions.
  • C. Some repaired congenital heart conditions still require precautions.
  • D. Deferring needed care indefinitely is inappropriate.

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