Endocrine Essentials
What hormone does the posterior pituitary store and release that regulates water balance?
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) – controls water reabsorption in kidneys
What are the “3 P’s” of hyperglycemia?
Polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia
Which lab values rise in acute kidney injury (AKI)?
BUN and creatinine
What is the most common symptom of a lower UTI?
Dysuria and urinary frequency
What infection is commonly associated with a “fishy odor” discharge?
BActerial vaginosis
What happens when the thyroid gland secretes too much thyroxine (T4)?
Hyperthyroidism – causes heat intolerance, tachycardia, and weight loss
What is the primary treatment goal for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?
Replace fluids, correct electrolytes, and give insulin
What electrolyte imbalance is most dangerous in renal failure?
Hyperkalemia, which can cause cardiac dysrhythmias
What is the goal of antibiotic therapy for pyelonephritis?
Eliminate infection and preserve renal function
What is the classic symptom of trichomoniasis?
Frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge with itching
In hypothyroidism, why is energy metabolism slowed?
Decreased thyroid hormone lowers metabolic rate, leading to fatigue and cold intolerance
What blood test reflects average glucose over the last 3 months?
Hemoglobin A1C
What acid-base imbalance develops with kidney failure?
Metabolic acidosis from retained hydrogen ions
Why is cloudy peritoneal dialysis effluent concerning?
It indicates peritonitis (infection)
What post-hysterectomy finding requires immediate attention?
Heavy vaginal bleeding or hypotension
What disorder results from too much cortisol production by the adrenal cortex?
Cushing’s syndrome – manifests as moon face, truncal obesity, and thin extremities
What is the difference between DKA and HHS?
DKA: type 1, ketones present; HHS: type 2, severe dehydration, no ketones
What is the most accurate daily measure of fluid balance?
Daily Weight
What should not be done on the arm with a dialysis fistula?
No BP, blood draws, or IVs
Which vaccine prevents most cases of cervical cancer?
HPV vaccine
What is the cause and key sign of Addison’s disease?
Caused by adrenal insufficiency; hallmark signs are hypotension, hyperpigmentation, and hyponatremia
What are the key steps of sick-day management for diabetic patients?
Continue insulin, monitor BG q3–4 h, increase fluids, check ketones, call provider if BG > 250 mg/dL
What are two key nursing priorities for a patient with high serum potassium (K⁺ > 6.0)?
Place on cardiac monitor and prepare to give calcium gluconate or insulin with dextrose
What causes dialysis disequilibrium syndrome and how is it prevented?
Rapid solute removal → cerebral edema; prevent with slow initial dialysis
What are the major warning signs of breast cancer?
Lump, skin dimpling, nipple retraction, or discharge