In prosthetic heart valve patient management, which piece of information should be documented?

• A. Date and type of surgery
• B. Favorite color
• C. Dietary preference
• D. Travel history

Answer: (A)

Recording the date of implantation and the exact valve type is essential because these details directly guide ongoing management. The valve type (mechanical vs bioprosthetic) determines lifelong anticoagulation needs and target INR, as mechanical valves typically require ongoing anticoagulation while bioprosthetic valves may need little or no long-term therapy. The implantation date helps clinicians gauge how long the valve has been in place, informs surveillance schedules and durability considerations, and influences decisions about follow-up imaging and potential future interventions. This information ensures coordinated, appropriate care across all aspects of the patient’s treatment.

Details like favorite color, dietary preferences, or travel history do not impact prosthetic valve management and are not routinely needed for this purpose.