Endocrine Unit
Chapters 51-52
Remember that assigned textbook readings should be supplemental to reviewing & studying the Powerpoint presentations. Answers to these study guide questions can be obtained from the textbook chapters, powerpoint presentations, as well as class lectures & in-class activities.
Chapter 51: Assessment & Management of Patients with Diabetes
Conditions to Know: Type 1 & 2 diabetes mellitus
1. Describe the pathophysiological differences between type 1 & type 2 diabetes.
2. What are some signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes? Think “3 P’s”.
3. What are some risk factors – modifiable & non-modifiable for type 2 diabetes? See Chart 51-1.
4. How is diabetes diagnosed? See Chart 51-2.
5. Identify the different types of insulin – include onset of action, peak, and duration. See Table 51-3.
6. What are some teaching points you would want to include while educating patients on insulin administration?
7. a. What are the signs and symptoms of hypo and hyperglycemia?
b. What are the common causes of hypo & hyperglycemia?
c. How are these conditions treated?
8. What are some of the potential complications that can occur with uncontrolled diabetes?
9. What are some recommended lifestyle changes for patients diagnosed with diabetes to help better manage the disease and prevent complications?
Chapter 52: Assessment & Management of Patients with Endocrine Disorders (p. 1510-1524)
Conditions to Know: Hypo & Hyperthyroidism
1. What are the functions of the thyroid gland?
2. The thyroid gland uses iodine from the foods you eat to make two main hormones: T3 & T4. Explain how the hypothalamus & pituitary in the brain regulate T3 & T4 balance.
3. Hyperthyroidism, also known as “overactive thyroid” causes the body to be in a hypermetabolic state, due to the thyroid gland producing too much T4. What signs and symptoms are present in hyperthyroidism that reflect this hypermetabolic state?
4. What are lab and diagnostic findings for a patient diagnosed of hyperthyroidism?
5. Explain the nursing care involved while caring for a patient with hyperthyroidism.
6. What are some nursing considerations & patient teaching for patients taking methimazole or PTU as treatment for hyperthyroidism?
7. In the case that medications alone do not help manage hyperthyroidism, two procedural treatments are available: radioactive iodine therapy & thyroidectomy (partial or total). Explain what is done during these procedures, as well as the nursing care & patient education that is needed.
8. What are the signs and symptoms of thyroid storm & what nursing care is needed if this occurs? See Chart 52-6.
9. Hypothyroidism, also known as “under-active thyroid” causes the body to be in a slowed metabolic state, due to an inadequate amount of circulating T3 & T4. What signs and symptoms are present in hypothyroidism that reflect this slowed metabolic state?
10. What are lab and diagnostic findings for a patient diagnosed of hypothyroidism?
11. What is levothyroxine & what are some important teaching points to include for patients taking this?
12. What are the signs and symptoms of myxedema coma & what nursing care is needed if this occurs?
