This tool supports structured infectious-disease decision making but does not replace clinician judgement or local guideline pathways.
This OpiCalc infectious-disease entry reflects commonly used guideline criteria and bedside risk features used in contemporary clinical practice.
PENS Score: Prosthetic endocarditis bedside risk flags focusing on nosocomial organisms, embolic complications, and hemodynamic instability.
Prosthetic valve present
+2 Points
Early post-operative presentation
Nosocomial or healthcare-associated onset
+1 Points
Staphylococcal or fungal microbiology
Valve dehiscence or new conduction issue
Shock or severe heart failure
+3 Points
Assessment Tier
Score 0
Lower-risk profile, but prosthetic valve infection still warrants a low threshold for escalation.