PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
What gland is responsible for the production of thyroid hormones?
The thyroid gland.
What symptom is common in both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism?
Fatigue
What is the most common medication used to treat hypothyroidism?
Levothyroxine
What should nurses monitor in a patient with hypothyroidism who is on levothyroxine therapy?
Monitor TSH levels and signs of over- or under-medication.
What is the life-threatening complication associated with untreated or poorly managed hyperthyroidism?
Thyroid storm.
What is the role of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) in thyroid function?
TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones (T3 and T4).
Which thyroid condition is associated with weight gain and cold intolerance?
Hypothyroidism
What class of medications is often used to control heart rate in hyperthyroidism?
Beta-blockers
How should a nurse educate a patient with hyperthyroidism about radioactive iodine treatment?
Educate on radiation safety precautions (e.g., avoiding close contact with others, especially pregnant women and children), and the potential for hypothyroidism post-treatment.
Name two early signs of myxedema coma.
Hypothermia and bradycardia.
What autoimmune disorder leads to hypothyroidism?
Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Which thyroid condition often presents with a goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)?
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can present with goiter.
How does Methimazole help treat hyperthyroidism?
Methimazole inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones.
What nursing intervention is critical in managing a patient with severe hypothyroidism (myxedema coma)?
Ensure airway patency, administer IV thyroid hormone replacement, and monitor vital signs.
What is the most important immediate intervention for a patient in thyroid storm?
Administer antithyroid medications, beta-blockers, and cooling measures.
In hyperthyroidism, what happens to the body’s metabolic rate?
The metabolic rate increases.
Name two cardiovascular symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Tachycardia and palpitations.
Which medication is used to destroy overactive thyroid tissue in hyperthyroidism?
Radioactive iodine (I-131).
In patients with hyperthyroidism, what intervention helps manage heat intolerance?
Provide a cool environment and encourage fluid intake.
What is a significant complication of thyroid surgery (thyroidectomy) that nurses must monitor for post-operatively?
Hypocalcemia due to possible damage to the parathyroid glands.
What is Grave’s disease, and how does it cause hyperthyroidism?
Grave’s disease is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system produces antibodies (TSI – thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins) that mimic TSH, causing the thyroid gland to produce excessive thyroid hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism.
What skin changes might you observe in a patient with hypothyroidism versus hyperthyroidism?
In hypothyroidism, the skin is dry and coarse; in hyperthyroidism, the skin is warm and moist.
What are the key nursing considerations when administering levothyroxine?
Administer on an empty stomach, monitor for signs of hyperthyroidism (overdose), and educate the patient on lifelong therapy.
When administering antithyroid medications, such as propylthiouracil (PTU), what adverse effects should the nurse monitor for?
Monitor for signs of liver toxicity (jaundice, dark urine) and agranulocytosis (fever, sore throat, infections).
n the event of thyroid storm, what are the hallmark clinical features that differentiate it from other conditions?
High fever (hyperpyrexia), extreme tachycardia, hypertension, and altered mental status (delirium, coma).