Endocrine Glands & Hormones
What is the "master gland" of the endocrine system, and why is it called that?
The pituitary gland; it regulates multiple endocrine functions by releasing stimulating hormones.
Differentiate between the anterior and posterior pituitary functions.
The anterior pituitary produces: ____________. The posterior pituitary stores and releases: ____________.
The anterior pituitary produces GH, ACTH, TSH, LH, FSH, and prolactin. The posterior pituitary stores and releases ADH and oxytocin.
What is the primary treatment for hypothyroidism?
Levothyroxine.
What is Addison's Disease?
Adrenal insufficiency causing low cortisol and aldosterone.
What is the priority intervention for a patient with a thyroid storm?
Reduce circulating thyroid hormones, manage fever, and control heart rate with beta-blockers.
Which endocrine gland requires iodine for hormone production?
The thyroid gland.
What condition is caused by excess growth hormone in adults?
Acromegaly.
What is Myxedema Coma, and why is it an emergency?
A severe form of hypothyroidism causing hypothermia, hypotension, and respiratory failure; requires immediate thyroid hormone replacement and ABC support.
What are two major complications of Addison’s disease?
Addisonian crisis and circulatory collapse/shock.
A patient with Addisonian crisis arrives in the ER. What are the first interventions?
IV hydrocortisone, fluid resuscitation with NS, and electrolyte monitoring.
Match the following hormones to their gland:
ACTH
INSULIN
CORTISOL
T3 & T4
PTH
ACTH → Pituitary
Insulin → Pancreas
Cortisol → Adrenal cortex
T3 & T4 → Thyroid
PTH → Parathyroid
Name a medication used to treat acromegaly and the mechanism of action.
Octreotide (reduces GH)
What is the key emergency intervention for a patient with tetany following a thyroidectomy?
Administer IV calcium gluconate.
What lab values are expected in Addison’s disease?
Low sodium, high potassium, low cortisol.
What electrolyte imbalance is common in SIADH?
Hyponatremia due to water retention.
Explain the role of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system.
The hypothalamus controls hormone secretion by the pituitary gland via releasing and inhibiting hormones.
What is a hypophysectomy and a key nursing intervention post-op?
Surgical removal of the pituitary gland; monitor for CSF leak using the "halo sign" and test for glucose in drainage.
What is SIADH and a key nursing intervention?
Excessive ADH causes water retention and hyponatremia; implement fluid restriction.
What medication is given for Addison’s Disease maintenance therapy?
Hydrocortisone or fludrocortisone.
A patient has a serum potassium level of 6.5 due to adrenal insufficiency. What is the priority action?
Place the patient on a cardiac monitor and administer calcium gluconate if needed.
What is a negative feedback system in endocrine function?
A regulatory mechanism where increasing levels of a hormone inhibit further secretion to maintain balance.
Describe Diabetes Insipidus (DI) and its primary treatment.
DI is caused by insufficient ADH, leading to excessive urination and dehydration; treated with desmopressin or vasopressin.
Why should the thyroid gland NOT be palpated in hyperthyroidism?
It can trigger a thyroid storm by releasing a surge of thyroid hormones.
What are hallmark signs of Cushing’s Syndrome?
Moon face, buffalo hump, central obesity, hypertension, and hyperglycemia.
What are key signs of a hypoglycemic emergency?
Confusion, sweating, tachycardia, shakiness, and potential loss of consciousness.