Scans and Procedures

Question 1

A SCAN that helps determine whether the patient has Graves’ disease(LOW TSH), or thyroiditis(HIGH TSH).
–>Iodine is admin. PO or IV. Usually in a capsule containing a radioactive substance the day before the scan. The substance is targeted for absorption by the thyroid gland.
NO precautions b/c radiation capsule has a short half life

Answer 1

Radioactive Iodine Uptake (RAIU)
Thyroid SCAN
**To determine the source of Hyperthyroidism

Question 2

To remove a goiter, mass, or tumor of the thyroid gland
SURGERY CRITERIA:
–Tracheal compression has occurred
–Drug therapy is unsuccessful
–Thyroid cancer has been detected
Priority: Resp. Distress
Bleeding: ^ IV and Call RR Team
MONITOR: VS and CA lvls for pos. Parathyroid Injury
Pt. in Semi-Fowlers w/ pillow DO NOT hyperextend neck

Answer 2

Thyroidectomy

Question 3

For hypo/hyperpituitarism
Need routine LAB visits
–Entire pituitary gland is removed = permanent loss of all pituitary hormones.
–The pt. will require lifelong replacement of GH, TSH, sex hormones, and glucocorticoids.

Answer 3

Transsphenoidal Hypophysectomy