Thyroid Basics
This condition slows metabolism due to low thyroid hormone levels.
What is hypothyroidism?
These drugs replace deficient thyroid hormone.
What are thyroid hormone agonists?
This lab must be checked before giving antithyroid drugs due to toxicity risk.
What are liver function tests (LFTs)?
When should thyroid hormone be taken for best absorption?
What is on an empty stomach (2–3 hrs before or after food/fiber)?
This hormone regulates sodium and water balance.
What is aldosterone?
A patient starts thyroid replacement. Will this be short-term or lifelong?
What is lifelong therapy?
This physical finding may occur in hyperthyroidism due to gland enlargement.
What is a goiter?
How do antithyroid drugs like PTU reduce hormone production?
What is blocking iodide + tyrosine binding?
Older adults are started on lower doses of thyroid hormone due to risk of what complications?
What are cardiac and nervous system effects?
Why should thyroid medications not be taken with fiber?
What is decreased absorption?
Why should thyroid medications not be taken with fiber?
What is fludrocortisone?
This drug mimics aldosterone and increases sodium retention.
What is report immediately (possible CHF)?
What indicates thyroid replacement therapy is effective?
What is normal VS, weight, bowel habits, and mental status?
Why do antithyroid drugs take weeks to work?
What is they do not affect stored thyroid hormone?
What serious condition increases infection risk with antithyroid drugs?
What is bone marrow suppression?
Why can’t thyroid drug brands be interchanged?
What is variable potency and patient response?
What is the function of cortisol? (Name one)
What is blood glucose control / stress response / cardiac function?
A patient on PTU develops yellow sclera. What is your action?
What is hold drug and report (hepatotoxicity)?
What happens to metabolism in hypothyroidism?
What is slowed metabolism?
Which medication interaction is MOST concerning with thyroid hormone?
What is warfarin (increased bleeding risk)?
Why are older adults at higher infection risk with antithyroid drugs?
What is decreased immunity + bone marrow suppression?
What teaching is essential for women taking thyroid hormone?
What is avoid breastfeeding?
What are signs of adrenal insufficiency? (Name 2)
What is hypoglycemia, hypotension, fatigue, salt craving, weakness?
A patient on thyroid meds reports fatigue, weight gain, and constipation. Interpretation?
What is dose too low / ineffective therapy?
Explain why hypothyroidism affects multiple body systems.
What is thyroid hormones regulate metabolism in all cells?
Why must thyroid hormone dosing be increased slowly in older adults?
What is to prevent cardiac complications (e.g., arrhythmias)?
What is the priority complication of fludrocortisone therapy?
What is congestive heart failure?
A patient takes thyroid medication with breakfast and fiber daily. Outcome?
What is decreased drug effectiveness?
How does mifepristone treat hypercortisolism?
What is blocks cortisol receptors (not levels)?
An older adult on antithyroid therapy develops fever and sore throat. Priority?
What is suspect infection due to bone marrow suppression → report immediately?