Thyroid Gland Anatomy & Physiology Category Name
What hormones are secreted by the thyroid gland?
Thyroxine (T4), Tri-iodothyronine (T3), and Calcitonin.
What is the most common cause of acquired hypothyroidism?
Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
What is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism?
Graves' disease.
Which blood test is most commonly used to assess thyroid function?
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) levels.
What is a common nursing intervention for a patient with hypothyroidism?
Promoting energy conservation and managing weight gain.
What is the main function of thyroid hormones in the body?
They regulate metabolism and energy expenditure.
What is the term used for the emergency condition resulting from severe hypothyroidism?
Myxedematous coma.
What condition involves extremely high thyroid hormone levels and is considered an emergency?
Thyroid storm (thyrotoxic crisis).
What imaging test is commonly used to assess thyroid enlargement or nodules?
Ultrasound.
What is a key nursing intervention for post-thyroidectomy patients?
Monitoring for airway compromise and bleeding.
Which hormone produced by the thyroid decreases blood calcium levels?
Calcitonin.
Which blood test results are typically seen in a patient with hypothyroidism?
Low T4 and elevated TSH.
What are the key features of hyperthyroidism?
Tachycardia, weight loss, heat intolerance, and tremors
What radiologic test measures the uptake of iodine by the thyroid gland?
Thyroid scan and uptake
What is the primary treatment for myxedematous coma?
Thyroid hormone replacement and supportive care.
Which part of the brain controls the release of thyroid hormones?
The hypothalamus.
What is a common symptom of hypothyroidism related to the metabolic state of the body?
Fatigue or weight gain.
Which test is used to diagnose hyperthyroidism?
Blood tests showing low TSH and elevated T3/T4.
What test can confirm the presence of a thyroid tumor or nodule?
Biopsy
What is the role of beta-blockers in managing thyroid storm?
To control symptoms like tachycardia and hypertension.
What is the role of the hypothalamus in thyroid hormone regulation?
It produces TRH (Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone) that stimulates the pituitary to release TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone), which then stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T3 and T4.
What is the treatment goal for hypothyroidism?
To restore normal thyroid function through hormone replacement therapy.
What is a common treatment for hyperthyroidism?
Antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or thyroidectomy.
What is a DEXA (bone density) scan used for in patients with parathyroid disorders?
to measure bone mineral density and assess for osteoporosis.
What is a major complication to monitor for after parathyroidectomy?
Hypocalcemia due to possible damage to the parathyroid glands.