Endocrinology MCQs for Medical-Surgical Nursing

The Endocrine System

• The endocrine system involves the release of chemical transmitter substances known as hormones.
• The system functions from the signals of the hypothalamus, which ensures homeostasis is maintained, and the pituitary gland.

The Pituitary Gland

• The pituitary gland is a hormone producer and gatekeeper.
• The gland has two parts: posterior and anterior pituitary gland.

Posterior Pituitary Gland

• Hormones produced by the hypothalamus are stored in the posterior pituitary gland.
• Hormones produced include:
  • ADH (Anti-Diuretic Hormone or Vasopressin) for water balance, kidney, sweat glands, and circulatory system.
  • Oxytocin, a female reproductive hormone.

Anterior Pituitary Gland

• The anterior pituitary gland produces and synthesizes hormones ordered by the hypothalamus.
• Hormones produced include:
  • GnRH (Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone) for reproductive system, sex hormone, and menstrual cycle.
  • TRH (Thyroid Releasing Hormone) for thyroid hormone production.
  • PRH (Prolactin Releasing Hormone) for milk production in mammary glands.
  • GHRH (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone) for IGF production in liver, bones, and muscles.
  • CRH (Corticotropin Releasing Hormone) for glucocorticoid production in adrenal glands.

Diabetes Insipidus

• Diabetes insipidus is a disorder characterized by uncontrolled urination and excessive thirst.
• Causes include:
  • Problems in the brain, such as tumors or blunt head injury, affecting the hypothalamus or pituitary gland.
  • Complications during head surgery.
• ADH (Vasopressin) regulates water balance; nonresponse can be caused by:
  • Inherited defects of receptors at DCT.
  • Certain drugs, such as lithium, foscarnet, and clozapine.
  • Sickle cell anemia.
  • Hypercalcemia-hypokalemia.
  • Pregnancy (Gestational DI).
• Signs and symptoms include:
  • Dehydration due to excessive urination.
  • Polydipsia (excessive thirst).
  • Polyuria (excessive urine).
  • Hypernatremia (normal solute concentration, but excessive water loss).

Test your knowledge of the endocrine system, including the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, and parathyroid gland, as well as various disorders such as diabetes insipidus and hyperthyroidism. This quiz is perfect for medical-surgical nursing students.