The Most Concerning Symptom in Newly Diagnosed Infective Endocarditis

❗️The constant pain in the knees and joints is a common symptom of infective endocarditis. While it can make exercise difficult, it is not life-threatening.

🚩The notes in the hands, also known as Osler's nodes, are painful and indicate endocarditis. However, they are expected symptoms and not the most concerning.

🤒Fever and tiredness are typical symptoms of infective endocarditis and require medical management. However, they are not the most concerning symptom.

🔴Numbness and coldness in the left leg indicate a potential blood clot or emboli. This is the most concerning symptom as it could lead to neurovascular compromise.

What are the common symptoms of infective endocarditis?

—Common symptoms of infective endocarditis include fever, fatigue, joint pain, Osler's nodes (painful nodes in the hands), and heart murmurs.

Why is the numbness and coldness in the left leg concerning?

—Numbness and coldness in the leg indicate a potential blood clot or emboli, which can lead to neurovascular compromise and potentially result in the loss of the affected limb.

What should be done if a patient with infective endocarditis presents with numbness and coldness in the leg?

—Immediate medical attention is required in such cases. The healthcare provider should be notified, and appropriate interventions should be initiated to prevent any complications.

Are the constant pain in the knees and joints a cause for concern?

—While the constant pain in the knees and joints can make exercise difficult, it is not the most concerning symptom. However, it should still be addressed by the healthcare provider.

What is the potential outcome if the obstructed femoral artery is not treated?

—If the obstructed femoral artery is not treated promptly, it can lead to neurovascular compromise and possibly result in the loss of the affected limb.

00:00A patient with newly diagnosed infective endocarditis presents with various symptoms and complaints.

00:17The nurse explains that when determining the most concerning symptom, it is important to consider potential complications.

01:53The nurse elaborates on the significance of Osler's nodes, a common symptom of endocarditis but not the most concerning.

03:01Fever and tiredness are typical symptoms of infective endocarditis, but they are not the most concerning.

07:32The nurse identifies numbness and coldness in the left leg as the most concerning symptom, indicating potential neurovascular compromise.