Endocrine Flashcards
(19 cards)
What are the main components of the endocrine system?
Endocrine glands: pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, pancreatic islets, ovaries, testes
Endocrine glands produce and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.
What is hyperpituitarism?
Excess hormone secretion from the pituitary gland
Conditions include acromegaly, syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), and Cushing syndrome.
Define acromegaly.
A condition caused by excess growth hormone leading to enlarged bones
It is a form of hyperpituitarism.
What is diabetes insipidus (DI)?
A condition characterized by inadequate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
It is not related to diabetes mellitus.
List the causes of diabetes insipidus.
- Primary: defect in hypothalamus/pituitary gland
- Secondary: head trauma, tumor, infection
- Nephrogenic: failure of kidneys to respond to ADH
- Drug-induced: lithium, declomycin
Each cause leads to different management strategies.
What are the clinical manifestations of diabetes insipidus?
Excessive thirst and urination
Diagnosis includes 24-hour urine collection and fluid deprivation tests.
What is Cushing’s syndrome?
A condition caused by excess cortisol due to endogenous or exogenous factors
Endogenous factors include adrenal hyperplasia or pituitary tumors.
What are the common clinical manifestations of Addison’s disease?
- Weakness
- GI disturbances
- Weight loss
- Hypoglycemia
- Bronze pigmentation
- Confusion
- Low Na and elevated K
It is caused by primary autoimmune issues or secondary withdrawal from steroids.
What is the main function of thyroid hormones?
Regulation of metabolism, cell growth, and tissue differentiation
Includes T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine).
What is the purpose of radioactive iodine therapy (I-131)?
To eliminate the hyperthyroid state
It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to risk of fetal hypothyroidism.
What are the characteristics of type 1 diabetes?
Insulin-producing beta cell destruction, leading to decreased insulin production
It is often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.
What are the three classic symptoms of diabetes?
- Polyuria
- Polydipsia
- Polyphagia
These symptoms indicate hyperglycemia.
What is the target A1C level for diabetes management?
Less than 7%
This target helps reduce the risk of complications.
What is the dawn phenomenon?
A rise in blood glucose levels around 3 am
It may require adjustments in insulin timing.
What are the acute complications of diabetes?
- Hypoglycemia
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
- Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Syndrome (HHS)
Each condition requires specific management strategies.
What is the management for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?
- Rehydration with IV fluids
- Continuous infusion of regular insulin
- Reverse acidosis and restore electrolyte balance
Monitoring is crucial for blood glucose and electrolyte levels.
What are the possible side effects of oral antidiabetic agents?
Hypoglycemia
Monitoring blood glucose is essential to prevent complications.
What should a nurse assess before initiating diabetes education?
The patient’s readiness to learn
Understanding the patient’s emotional state can help tailor education.
What is the Somogyi effect?
A pattern of hypoglycemia followed by rebound hyperglycemia
It can occur due to excessive insulin doses at night.
