Medical Management of Hyperthyroidism

Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of administering drugs that block the production of thyroid hormones in hyperthyroidism?

To stimulate the pineal gland

To block the production of thyroid hormones (correct)

To limit the effect of the pituitary on the thyroid

To reduce hormone receptor sensitivity

What is the recommended postoperative position for a patient who has undergone a thyroidectomy?

Prone position

Supine position

Side-lying position

Semi-Fowler's position (correct)

What essential equipment should be available at the bedside of a postoperative thyroidectomy patient?

Water-sealed drainage system

Large bandage scissors

Tracheotomy tray (correct)

Ventilator

What does a spasm of facial muscles indicate when stimulated in a postoperative thyroidectomy patient?

Chvostek sign Signup and view all the answers

How long does it take for lispro (Humalog) insulin to begin its action?

15 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What physical sign would you assess to determine potential hypocalcemia in a patient after thyroid surgery?

Chvostek sign Signup and view all the answers

For a postoperative thyroidectomy patient, what position aids in breathing and prevents aspiration?

Semi-Fowler's position Signup and view all the answers

What immediate action should be taken if a patient exhibits signs of airway compromise after a thyroidectomy?

Use suction apparatus Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for maintaining the anatomic position of the head when moving a patient?

To prevent tension on the suture line Signup and view all the answers

Which food should a nurse recommend to a patient with hyperthyroidism to support increased metabolism?

Leafy green vegetables Signup and view all the answers

Which dietary component is essential for a patient with hypocalcemia due to hypoparathyroidism?

Tofu Signup and view all the answers

When administering long-acting insulin, which of the following insulins should a nurse identify as providing coverage for 24 hours?

Lantus Signup and view all the answers

In managing a patient post-thyroidectomy, which assessment is recommended every 2 to 4 hours?

Voice check by asking the patient to say 'ah' Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following options are signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia? (Select all that apply)

Irritability Signup and view all the answers

What are the major life-threatening complications that may arise postoperatively after a thyroidectomy? (Select all that apply)

Hemorrhaging Signup and view all the answers

Which functions are associated with cortisol secreted by the adrenal cortex? (Select all that apply)

Glucose metabolism Signup and view all the answers

Which tasks should the nurse prioritize in postoperative care for a thyroidectomy patient? (Select all that apply)

Checking for signs of infection Signup and view all the answers

What are the indications of glucocorticoid secretion? (Select all that apply)

Stress response Signup and view all the answers

Which of these are considered immediate postoperative complications from a thyroidectomy? (Select all that apply)

Nerve injury Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone is primarily involved in stress response and energy metabolism? (Select all that apply)

Cortisol Signup and view all the answers

Which patients are at greatest risk for developing tetany post-thyroidectomy? (Select all that apply)

Patients with prior neck surgeries Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements regarding postoperative care for a thyroidectomy are true? (Select all that apply)

Monitoring for signs of thyroid storm is crucial. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of excessive cortisol levels in the body? (Select all that apply)

Weight gain Signup and view all the answers

Why is the pituitary gland referred to as the 'master gland'?

It controls other endocrine glands through negative feedback inhibition. Signup and view all the answers

What should be assessed in a patient before administering an iodine-131 test?

Status of possible pregnancy. Signup and view all the answers

What effect does excessive exercise have on insulin needs for a type I diabetic?

It can decrease the need for insulin and may result in hypoglycemia. Signup and view all the answers

Which food is a good source of iodine for someone with hypothyroidism?

Eggs Signup and view all the answers

What would be an adverse reaction to calcium gluconate in a patient with hypoparathyroid tetany?

Drop in blood pressure Signup and view all the answers

What do the Chvostek sign and the Trousseau sign indicate in a patient?

Low levels of serum calcium. Signup and view all the answers

What complication should a patient with parathyroid hormone deficiency be cautioned about?

Laryngeal spasms. Signup and view all the answers

How are 100-unit insulin syringes marked?

2-unit increments Signup and view all the answers

In planning care for a 75-year-old man with diabetes insipidus after a head injury, what is a key consideration?

Protecting the patient from injury. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following indicates a need for further evaluation when administering iodine-131?

History of allergic reactions to iodine. Signup and view all the answers

How long can exercise continue to improve glucose uptake for a diabetic patient?

For up to 72 hours. Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate dietary consideration for a patient with hypothyroidism?

Adequate intake of iodine. Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is not typically associated with an adverse effect of calcium gluconate?

High blood pressure Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored in patients undergoing exercise with diabetes management?

Decrease in glucose levels. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential risk of low levels of serum calcium?

Muscle spasms. Signup and view all the answers

What should the nurse monitor for in a patient receiving insulin?

Blood glucose levels. Signup and view all the answers

What is critically important for patients taking iodine-131?

Ensuring they are not pregnant. Signup and view all the answers

What should be a crucial part of the care plan for a patient with severe hypocalcemia?

Monitoring calcium levels regularly. Signup and view all the answers

What should patients with diabetes be advised about their exercise routines?

Regular exercise is beneficial. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following interventions is NOT appropriate for a patient with diabetes insipidus?

Limiting fluid intake. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hyperthyroidism Management

Administration of drugs like propylthiouracil or methimazole blocks the production of thyroid hormones.
Postoperative care for thyroidectomy includes positioning the patient in a semi-Fowler’s position to support the head and shoulders.

Emergency Preparedness Post-Thyroidectomy

Keep a tracheotomy tray and suction apparatus readily available for emergencies.
Monitor for signs of complications such as Chvostek sign, indicating hypocalcemic tetany.

Insulin Information

Lispro (Humalog) insulin has an onset of action in 15 minutes, allowing injection shortly before meals.
Type I diabetics should be cautious of excessive exercise which can lead to hypoglycemia due to increased glucose uptake.

Calcium and Parathyroid Hormone

Low serum calcium levels can lead to Chvostek and Trousseau signs, both indicating hypocalcemia.
A deficiency of parathyroid hormone can cause severe hypocalcemia, leading to potential laryngeal spasms, stridor, and asphyxia.

Diabetes Insipidus Care

Protect patients from injury due to risks associated with sleep deprivation and frequent nocturnal awakenings.

Iodine-131 Test Guidelines

Assess for potential pregnancy prior to conducting an iodine-131 test due to contraindications during pregnancy.

Dietary Considerations in Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

Hypothyroid patients should include iodine-rich foods such as eggs and saltwater fish.
A diet for hyperthyroid patients should focus on high-protein items like lean meat, leafy green vegetables, and vitamin D supplements.

Calcium Gluconate Monitoring

Watch for a drop in blood pressure as a potential adverse reaction when administering calcium gluconate.

Insulin Syringe Markings

100-unit insulin syringes are marked in 2-unit increments, while smaller syringes use 1-unit increments.

Signs and Symptoms of Hypoglycemia

Symptoms include irritability, tremors, and diaphoresis, indicating a hypoglycemic reaction and requiring prompt attention.

Postoperative Complications of Thyroidectomy

Major complications include hemorrhaging, tetany, and thyroid crisis (storm) following surgery.

Cortisol and Glucocorticoids

Cortisol, a key glucocorticoid, is crucial for glucose metabolism and provides extra energy reserves during stress.

Post-Thyroidectomy Care Protocols

Maintain proper anatomical positioning of the head to avoid tension on the suture line.
Conduct voice checks every 2 to 4 hours and monitor for bleeding in the surgical area.

Nutritional Guidance for Specific Conditions

Patients with hypoparathyroidism should consume a high-calcium, low-phosphorus diet, including canned fish with bones, tofu, and vitamin D supplements to aid calcium absorption.
Patients with diabetes insipidus must not limit fluid intake to ensure adequate hydration.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the medical management of hyperthyroidism, including the role of medications like propylthiouracil and methimazole. Test your understanding of how to manage thyroid hormone production effectively. Explore the various approaches and their implications in treating hyperthyroidism.