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162 Cards in this Set

  • Front
  • Back
The endocrine system is composed of:
a series of ductless glands
The endocrine system communicates through the use of:
Hormones
Hormones are:
chemical messengers that travel though the bloodstream to their target organ
The body’s glands are divided into two categories:
endocrine and exocrine
*Explain the endocrine glands:
*
-ductless
-release secretions directly into blood stream
-secretions have regulatory function
*Explain the exocrine glands:
*
-secrete through a series of ducts (sebaceous and sudoriferous)
-their secretions are protective and functional
Pituitary Gland
—“master gland”
Anterior pituitary gland
Posterior pituitary gland
*Thyroid gland:
*
-butterfly shape, with one lobe laying on either side of the trachea
-very vascular gland
-secretes T4 and T3
*Parathyroid gland:
*
-four parathyroid glands
-increases the concentration of calcium in the blood
-regulates the amt of phosphorus in the blood
*Adrenal gland:
–Adrenal cortex (three layers that secrete hormones called steroids)

–Adrenal medulla (two hormones released during stress-epinephrine/adrenaline and norepinephrine)
*Pancreas:
*
-very active organ composed of both exocrine and endocrine tissue
-cells secrete insulin and glucagon
The endocrine glands are responsible for:
regulation of numerous physiological processes in the body, including reproductive functions
What are the female sex glands?
Ovaries
Placenta
What are the functions of the ovaries?
secrete estrogen, which is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics
*The placenta is only present in the woman during pregnancy. What are the functions of the placenta?
*
during this time the ovaries become inactive and the placenta releases the estrogen and progesterone needed to maintain the pregnancy
*What hormones are secreted by the placenta?
*
estrogen and progesterone
*What hormone is secreted by the testes?
*
testosterone
*What bodily changes result from the hormone secreted by the testes?
*
-the appearance of axilary, pubic, and facial hair
-maturation of the reproductive organs
-deepening of the voice
-the development of muscle and bone mass
-sperm formation in males
What are the male sex glands?
Testes
*Thymus gland:
*
-produces thymosin which plays an active role in the immune system
*Pineal gland:
*
-secretes melatonin which prevents sexual maturity from occuring until adulthood
What is Acromegaly ?
-Overproduction of somatotropin (growth) hormone in the adult

-Idiopathic hyperplasia of the anterior pituitary gland

-Tumor growth in the anterior pituitary gland

-Changes are irreversible

-a relatively rare disorder
Acromegaly Clinical manifestations:
-Enlargement of the cranium and lower jaw
-Separation and malocclusion of the teeth
-Bulging forehead
-Bulbous nose
-Thick lips; enlarged tongue
-Generalized coarsening of the facial features
-Enlarged hands and feet
-Enlarged heart, liver, and spleen
-Muscle weakness
-Hypertrophy of the joints with pain and stiffness
-Males—impotence
-Females—deepened voice, increased facial hair, amenorrhea
-Partial or complete blindness with pressure on the optic nerve due to tumor
-Severe headaches
*The characteristic clinical manifestations of acromegaly occur throughout the body. When collecting information from patients, what subjective data should be obtained? What questions should be asked of this patient?
*
includes determining the presence of headaches of visual disturbances and any precipitating factors
-muscle wekness in relation to activities performed
*The significant changes in appearance associated with acromegaly have the potential to have psychosocial implications. What nursing diagnoses may be applicable to the psychosocial needs of the patient diagnosed with acromegaly?
*
disturbed body image, related to enlargement of the hands, feet, tongue, jaw and soft tissue
Hyperpituitary-Acromegaly Diagnosis:
-Increase serum Somatotropin (growth hormone)
-X-rays,
-MRI
-Physical Exam
-Oral glucose challenge-level does not go down
Hyperpituitary-Acromegaly
Clinical Manifestations:
-Enlarged pituitary gland
-HA
-Visual disturbances
-slanting forehead
-Course facial features
-Protruding Jaw
-Increased BP
-CHF
-menstrual changes
-sleep apnea
-Hypertrophy of soft tissue Such as tongue, skin, and visceral organs
-enlargement of small bones in the hands and feet
What are diagnostic tests for acromegaly?
-History & clinical manifestations
-CT scan & MRI
-Ophthalmologic exams
-Labs: GH & IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Hormone)
Definitive test is the oral glucose challenge test
Acromegaly: Medical management
-Medications:
-Cryosurgery
-Transsphenoidal removal of tissue
-Proton beam therapy
*Cryosurgery:
*
the use of subfreezing temperatures to destroy tissue
*Transsphenoidal Removal of tissue:
*
the removal of tumor tissue
*Proton beam therapy:
*
irridation procedure that uses very low doses of radiation and therefore it is much less destructive to adjacent tissues than radiation
Medications for Acromegaly:
-Dopamine agonists: cabergoline
-Somatostatin analogs (inhibit GH): octreotide
Complications of acromegaly
Enlargement of liver, spleen & heart, cardiac dysrhythmias, CHF, respiratory difficulty
*The patient experiencing acromegaly will often experience 7 to 9 years between the diagnosis of the disorder and the onset of clinical manifestations. What factors could be associated with this delay in a definitive diagnosis?
*
because it takes a subsequent overabuncance of growth hormone to produce the many changes throughout the patients body and in many cases it can take 7-9 yrs for these hormones to become subsequently overabundant
* When acromegaly is suspected, the diagnosis will be made based upon the patient’s health history, clinical manifestations, and the results of screening tests. What tests can be anticipated? What findings will support a positive diagnosis?
*
the GH-suppression (also called the glucose-loading test) may be done to evaulate GH levels...GH levels will be high with gigantism
* After diagnosis and treatment, what prognosis can the acromegalic patient anticipate?
*
even with adequate medical or surgical treatment, the physical changes are irreversible and the patient is prone to developing complications
Acromegaly : Nursing interventions (Supportive)
-Assess ability of ADLs D/T weakness, stiffness & joint pain
-Assess headaches – concern for tumor progression
-Soft, easy-to-chew diet – encourage chewing thoroughly
-Analgesics – non-opioid as needed
-Activity intolerance
-Body image disturbances
Acromegaly: Patient teaching
-ROM exercises to prevent muscle atrophy & loss of movement
What is Gigantism?
-Overproduction of growth hormone
-Caused by hyperplasia of the anterior pituitary gland
-Occurs in a child before closure of the epiphyses
The secretion of growth hormone is responsible for what?
the growth and development of the body’s tissues
When growth hormone is produced in excess what can result?
Gigantism
*What are the role of epiphyses in gigantism and why is gigantism impacted by their development?
*
when overproduction of GH occurs in a child before closure of the epiphyses, there is an overgrowth of the long bones which results in the attainment of great height, accompanied by increased muscle development.
Gigantism: Clinical manifestations/assessment
-Great height
-Increased muscle and visceral development
-Increased weight
-Normal body proportions
-Weakness
Gigantism: Medical management
-Surgical removal of tumor
-Irradiation of the anterior pituitary gland
*Clinical manifestations associated with gigantism resemble an “overgrowth.” Despite their large size, the affected patients experience weakness. What causes this weakness?
*
* What nursing care will be needed for the patient diagnosed with gigantism?
*
the nurse must be understanding and compassionate and accentuate the positive aspects of being tall
Gigantism Nursing Diagnosis & interventions:
-Emotional support
-Chronic low self-esteem R/T irreversible body changes
-Ineffective coping R/T personal vulnerability
Posterior pituitary hormones are actually produced in the _______ and only stored in the ________.
Hypothalamus; posterior pituitary
Posterior pituitary hormones:
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
Oxytocin
The hormones secreted by the posterior pituitary are :
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) (Also call vasopressin)
and oxytocin
ADH contributes to fluid balance by:
Controlling renal reabsorption of free water
It also has potent vasoconstrictive prope
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) Also called:
Vasopressin
Excess ADH:
Syndrome of Inappropriate ADH secretion (SIADH)
Deficiency ADH:
Diabetes Insipidus
ADH (anti-diuretic hormone) is a hormone made in:
pituitary gland
ADH does what the name says:
it stops urination – diuresis
Slowing or stopping urine production leads to:
fluid retention
Fluid retention causes:
a dilution of body sodium
SIADH:Depending on the rapidity & the extent of the sodium drop, a battery of S/S appear, including:
Lethargy, weakness, & foggy thinking are common. Personality changes can happen.
Low sodium levels often make pt nauseated
If the situation is not corrected, seizures, coma, & even death can follow.
SIADH:Depending on the rapidity & the extent of the sodium drop, a battery of S/S appear, including:
Lethargy, weakness, & foggy thinking are common. Personality changes can happen.
Low sodium levels often make pt nauseated
If the situation is not corrected, seizures, coma, & even death can follow.
SIADH occurs when there is:
too much vasopression (ADH) with inappropriate water retention and decreased blood Na levels
SIADH Results from:
–Inability to produce & secrete dilute urine
–Water retention
–Increased extra cellular fluid volume
–Hyponatremia Diseases that affect the hypothalamus
-many different conditions and drugs
SIADH May be produced by:
certain tumors such as lung cancer
chronic lung diseases.
Medicines associated with SIADH include common meds :
–Antidepressants
–antianxiety agents,
–antipsychotic agents,
–seizure meds
–desmopressin (DDAVP)
Physical Assessment of SIADH:
Initially, S/S are R/T retention of water.
Most common complaints
GI disturbances-loss of appetite, nausea & vomiting
Nursing Interventions SIADH:
-Weighs pt & documents any recent weight gain
Checks pt extremities for presence of edema
Pt with SIADH have:
free water, not salt, that is retained & edema is not usually present due to intracellular free water
Water retention, hyponatremia, & resulting fluid shifts have an effect on:
-CNS function, especially when serum sodium level drops.
-Normal serum Na 135-145.
-S/S occur when serum Na level drops below 125, and especially below 115
Clinical S/S SIADH:
-Lethargy, headaches, hostility, uncooperativeness, disorientation
-Early sign -Change in LOC
-Neurological S/S can progress from lethargy and headaches to decreased responsiveness, seizures, and coma.
-Nurse assess deep tendon reflexes, which are often < or sluggish
V/S changes with SIADH
tachycardia associated with increased fluid volume & hypothermia associated with CNS disturbance
Normal lab values for serum osmolality:
(285-295 mOsm/kg
Osmolality is:
is measures in milliosmoles per kilogram of water (mOsm/kg). The major determinants of plasma osmolality are Na, glucose, & urea
Urine osmolality:
24 hr specimen
500-800 mOsm/kg H20
-Random specimen: 50-1200 mOsm/kg/H20
Urine specific gravity:
1.003-1.030
1.002-1.035
High=dehydration
Low=diabetes insipidus
concentrated urine :
> than 50-100 mOsm/kg with normal vascular volume and normal renal function
Extracellular fluid volume expansion affects:
electrolyte levels in the serum and the urine
Elevated urine sodium levels and specific gravity reflect an increased:
concentration of the urine
With SIADH, Serum sodium levels are decreased, often as low as 110 mEq/L (normal serum sodium 135-145 mEq/L) due to:
extracellular volume expansion and increased Na excretion
Fluid retention causes changes in:
both plasma and urine osmolality
In SIADH, Plasma osmolality is:
Decreased
In SIADH, the urine is _________ in relation to the plasma
hyperosmolar
The major determinants of plasma osmolality are
Na, glucose, & urea.
The _______ are mainly responsible for maintaining the concentration of body fluids within this range of osmolality.
Kidneys
When the plasma osmolality becomes abnormal, changes in the level of antidiuretic hormones (ADH) cause:
the kidneys to conserve or increase the excretion of water to return the osmolality to normal
ADH excess =
water intoxication
When water is reabsorbed assess for
increased blood volume, fluid retention
concentrated urine, low urine output
dilutional hyponatremia (same Na, more H20)
muscle cramps and weakness
anorexia, n/v, irritable, confused, disorient, seizure
Hyponatremia-
a lower than normal concentration of sodium in the blood
Hyponatremia Caused by
by inadequate excretion of water of by excessive water in the circulating bloodstream
In a severe case of hyponatremia the pt may experience
water intoxication, with confusion and lethargy, leading to muscle excitability, convulsions, and coma.
Treatment for hyponatremia
Fluid and electrolyte balance may be restored by IV infusion of a balanced solution or a fluid restricted diet.
SIADH: Diagnosis
measure urine volume
and
osmolality
(Na < 134mmol/L
se osmol >280mmol/kg
SG>1005
low BUN, creatinine, Hb, Hct).
SIADH: Treatment
If Na<125:
Restrict fluids 800 - 1000 ml/day.
Daily weight Monitor
3% - 5% Saline solution IV

Lasix if Na<105 (cardiac symptoms)
SIADH Diagnostic Study includes:
Hyponatremia
Decreased plasma osmolality
Urine sodium and urine osmolality elevated
Elevated ADH levels++++++
Normal renal, adrenal, & thyroid functions
SIADH Nursing assessment
Headache
Personality change,
Confusion
Irrritability
Dysarthria(difficult, poorly articulated speech)
Lethargy
Impaired memory
Restless
Weakness
Fatigue,
Gait disturbances
Weight gain+++++
What is the cornerstone of SIADH treatment?
Water restriction
The maximum amount of water that pt with SIADH are allowed to drink is:
just slightly more that the amount of urine they produce
Nursing Interventions for SIADH
-Restrict fluid intake (800-1000 cc/day)
-Daily weight Strict I & O
-Monitor urine specific gravity
-0.9 NS infusion(to raise the serum Na level if water intoxication is severe)
-Monitor for hyponatremia
-Lasix may be admin to block circulatory overload
-Drugs-demeclocyclin HCL & lithium-may be admin to block renal response to ADH, intereferes with action of ADH
-Drugs - Phenytoin - inhibits ADH release
-Surgery & Chemo -to remove or destroy neoplasms that may be the underlying cause of this syndrome
What is the role of lithium in SIADH?
Inhibits ADH action in kidney
Blocks renal response to ADH, interferes with action of ADH
What is the Therapeutic outcome of Lithium when a pt has SIADH?
Decreased urine specific gravity
Whar is Diabetes Insipidus?
Transient or permanent metabolic disorder of the posterior pituitary
Deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
Primary or secondary

Uncommon syndrome of posterior pituitary hypofunction
S/S of diabetes insipidus:
Increased thirst - polydipsia
Increased urination - polyruia
What are the results of diabetes insipidus?
ADH (Vasopression) deficiency, which prevents the kidneys from reabsorbing water
Inability to conserve water
Decreased ADH =
diuresis
With Diabetes Insipidus, water is lost, so assess for
Kidneys produce large amts of dilute urine (5L-10L in 24hrs)
low urine specific gravity (1.001-1.005)
polyuria (>urine output), polydipsia (>thirst)
fluid deficit
weight loss, turgor,dehydration, hypotension, constipation, shock
Vasopressin (Pitressin) :
is ADH
Vasopressin (Pitressin) Classification:
Hormone (antidiuretic)
Vasopressin (Pitressin) Uses:
Treatment of diabetes insipidus due to deficient antidiuretic hormone
Vasopressin (Pitressin) Route/Dose
IM, sc, nasal spray
Vasopressin Nsg Implications
replace fluid: saline and glucose
monitor I & O
check specific gravity
observe electrolytes
Monitor adverse reactions-abdominal cramps, angina, MI
Diabetes insipidus treatment:
Desmopressin (DDAVP)
CLASSIFICATION
Hormone (andiuretic)
Diabetes insipidus treatment:
Desmopressin (DDAVP)
INDICATION
Management of primary nocturnal eneuresis unresponsive to other treatment modalities
Diabetes insipidus treatment:
Desmopressin (DDAVP)
ROUTE
po, sc, IV, Intranasal
Diabetes insipidus treatment:
Desmopressin (DDAVP)
ACTION
An anologue of naturally occuring vasopressin (antiuretic hormone). Primary action is enhanced reabsorption of water in the kidneys
Diabetes insipidus treatment:
Desmopressin (DDAVP)
THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS
Prevention of nocturnal enuresis. Maintenance of appropriate body water content in diabetes insipidus
Diabetes insipidus treatment:
Desmopressin (DDAVP)
Nsg Implication:
: Monitor urine & plasma osmolality & urine volume frequently. Assess pt for symptoms of dehydration (excessive thirst, dry skin & mucous membranes, tachycardia, poor skin turgor) Weigh pt daily & assess for edema
ADH excess =
water intoxication
Diabetes insipidus
Clinical manifestations/assessment
Polyuria; polydipsia
May become severely dehydrated
Lethargic
Dry skin; poor skin turgor
Constipation
Diabetes insipidus
Medical management/nursing interventions
ADH preparations
Limit caffeine due to diuretic properties
TSH excreted by the
anterior pituitary gland
What happens when TSH is excreted?
Works as a negative feedback with T3 & T4 made in the thyroid gland
When T3 & T4 are high, TSH is low
Hyperthyroidism
Etiology/pathophysiology
-Also called Graves’ disease
-Overproduction of the thyroid hormones
-Exaggeration of metabolic processes
-Exact cause unknown
Hyperthyroidism occurs more commonly in
women than men
Hyperthyroidism:
Clinical manifestations/assessment
-Edema of the anterior portion of the neck
-Exophthalmos
-Inability to concentrate; memory loss
-Dysphagia
-Hoarseness
-Increased appetite
-Weight loss
-Nervousness
Insomnia
Tachycardia; hypertension
Warm, flushed skin
Fine hair
Amenorrhea
Elevated temperature
Diaphoresis
Hand tremors
Hyperthyroidism:
Medical management/nursing interventions
Medications
Propylthiouracil
Methimazole
Radioactive iodine
Subtotal thyroidectomy
When hyperthyroidism is suspected, a full diagnostic workup is warranted. What tests can be anticipated? What findings will support a positive diagnosis for the condition?
* P. 1770 box 51-1 in book
Hyperthyroidism can be managed with the use of medications as well as surgical intervention. When medications are prescribed, what is their mode of action?
* p. 1770 table 51-1
Hyperthyroidism:
Medical management/nursing interventions
Postoperative
Voice rest; voice checks
Avoid hyperextension of the neck
Tracheotomy tray at bedside
Assess for signs and symptoms of internal and external bleeding
Assess for tetany
Chvostek’s and Trousseau’s signs
Assess for thyroid crisis
During the postoperative period of a patient with hyperthyroidism the patient’s environment is monitored. What characteristics are desired for the patient’s care environment? Why?
*
keeping the bed in semi-fowlers position with pillows supporting the head and shoulders
-pt should be cautioned about hyperextending the head
-suction and trach equip should be available
-cool mist humidifier
Hypothyroidism
Etiology/pathophysiology
-Insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones
-Slowing of all metabolic processes
-Failure of thyroid or insufficient secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone from pituitary gland
Hypothyroidism is a common disorder. What populations are affected most?
*
What conditions can cause hypothyroidism?
*
Hypothyroidism:
Clinical manifestations/assessment
-Hypothermia; intolerance to cold
-Weight gain
-Depression
-Impaired memory; slow thought process
-Lethargic
-Anorexia
-Constipation
-Decreased libido
-Menstrual irregularities
-Thin hair
-Skin thick and dry
-Enlarged facial appearance
-Low, hoarse voice
-Bradycardia
-Hypotension
Hypothyroidism can affect both:
newborns and adults
What medical terminology is used to refer to the condition of hypothyroidism in newborns? In adults?
*
Hypothyroidism (continued)
Medical management/nursing interventions
Medications
Levothyroxine (T4)

Symptomatic treatment
Keep patient warm
Extra time for physical care so patient does not feel rushed
Accurate records of stools & give stool softeners as ordered
High protein, high fiber, low carbohydrate diet
Fluids encouraged
Watch for cardiac symptoms – chest pain, dyspnea, HR & rhythm
Teach not to stop medication – will be taking for life
Be aware of increased risk for adverse effects of sedatives, hypnotic, ad anesthetics
Hyperparathyroidism
Etiology/pathophysiology
-Overactivity of the parathyroid, with increased production of parathyroid hormone
-Hypertrophy of one or more of the parathyroid glands
-Chronic renal failure, pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis
-Parathyroid carcinoma is very rare with rapid progress and grave prognosis
Hyperparathyroidism affects:
women between the ages of 30 and 70 years of age.
Hyperparathyroidism
Clinical manifestations/assessment
-Hypercalcemia
-Skeletal pain; pain on weight-bearing
-Pathological fractures
-Kidney stones
-Fatigue
-Drowsiness
-Nausea
-Anorexia
-Constipation
-Personality changes – even paranoia
-Disorientation
What is the primary manifestation of hyperparathyroidism?
Hypercalcemia is the primary manifestation
Why is there pain associated with hyperparathyroidism?
*
because calcium leaves the bnones and accumulates in the bloodstream and as a result the bones become demineralized causing skeletal pain, pain on weight bearing, and pathologic fractures. High level of Ca can also result in kidney stones
The cardiovascular system may be impacted by hyperparathyroidism. What will occur if this system becomes involved?
*
hypertension and cardiac dysrhythmias may be present
-changes in the serum calcium level may cause bradycardia and other cardiac irregularities
Hyperparathyroidism
Medical management
-Removal of tumor
-Removal of one or more parathyroid glands
Hyperparathyroidism: Nursing Interventions
Pre-op is help restore F&E balance
Strain urine for possible stones
Cranberry juice help promote acidic urine
Assess pain and medicate as needed per orders
Post-op – same as thyroidectomy
Careful I&O – tend to retain fluid and may have low UOP
Assess for signs of hypocalcemia
Good body mechanics to prevent pathologic fractures
When hyperparathyroidism is suspected, a series of diagnostic tests will be performed. A radiographic examination of the skeleton might be ordered. What results would be anticipated to support a positive diagnosis?
*
x-rays may reveal skeletal decalcification
PTH levels are increased
alkaline phosphate levels are increased
serum calcium levels are increased
serum phosphorus is decreased
Hypoparathyroidism
Etiology/pathophysiology
-Decreased parathyroid hormone
-Decreased serum calcium levels
-Inadvertent removal or destruction of one or more parathyroid glands during thyroidectomy
A reduction of parathyroid hormones will result in hypoparathyroidism.
What will cause this disorder to occur?
*
when there is a decrease in the parathyroid hormones there are decrease levels of serum calcium
Hypoparathyroidism
Clinical manifestations/assessment
-Neuromuscular hyperexcitability
-Involuntary and uncontrollable muscle spasms
-Tetany
-Laryngeal spasms
-Stridor
-Cyanosis
-Parkinson-like syndrome
-Chvostek’s and Trousseau’s signs
Hypoparathyroidism
Diagnostic testing
-Decreased serum calcium & increased urine calcium
-Increased serum phosphorus & decreased urine phosphorus
Hypoparathyroidism
Medical management/nursing interventions
-Calcium gluconate or calcium chloride IV (slow) – if out of vein leads to tissue extravasation
-Vitamin D given orally to increase absorption and blood level of calcium
The management of hypoparathyroidism involves
the administration of calcium gluconate or calcium chloride
When developing a plan of care for hypoparathyroidism, what dietary recommendations should be made?
*
contain foods high in calcium such as dairy products, dark green vegetables, soybeans, and canned fish with bones included
Hypoparathyroidism
Nursing Interventions
-Monitor for signs of hypercalcemia
-Assess for respiratory distress, renal involvement and adverse reactions to calcium therapy such as bradycardia, syncope, and hypotension
-Risk for injury R/T hypocalcemia
hypoparathyroidism
Client Teaching
-Know S&S of early hypocalcemia
-Teach pt to monitor pulse for changes
-Teach proper fluid balance – intake/output but mostly daily weight
-Proper diet
-Take calcium supplements as ordered
Hypercalcemia S/S
N, vomiting, disorientation, anorexia, abdominal pain, and weakness
Assess for respir
Hyperparathyroidism
Etiology/pathophysiology
-Overactivity of the parathyroid, with increased production of parathyroid hormone
-Hypertrophy of one or more of the parathyroid glands
-Chronic renal failure, pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis
-Parathyroid carcinoma is very rare with rapid progress and grave prognosis
Hyperparathyroidism affects:
women between the ages of 30 and 70 years of age.
Hyperparathyroidism
Clinical manifestations/assessment
-Hypercalcemia
-Skeletal pain; pain on weight-bearing
-Pathological fractures
-Kidney stones
-Fatigue
-Drowsiness
-Nausea
-Anorexia
-Constipation
-Personality changes – even paranoia
-Disorientation
What is the primary manifestation of hyperparathyroidism?
Hypercalcemia is the primary manifestation
Hyperparathyroidism
Medical management
-Removal of tumor
-Removal of one or more parathyroid glands
Hyperparathyroidism: Nursing Interventions
Pre-op is help restore F&E balance
Strain urine for possible stones
Cranberry juice help promote acidic urine
Assess pain and medicate as needed per orders
Post-op – same as thyroidectomy
Careful I&O – tend to retain fluid and may have low UOP
Assess for signs of hypocalcemia
Good body mechanics to prevent pathologic fractures
Hypoparathyroidism
Etiology/pathophysiology
-Decreased parathyroid hormone
-Decreased serum calcium levels
-Inadvertent removal or destruction of one or more parathyroid glands during thyroidectomy