Lippincott Nursing Pocket Card
Prompt recognition of thyroid emergencies is critical to decrease complications and mortality. Management requires both medical and supportive treatment provided in the critical care setting.
Myxedema coma is a severe, life-threatening emergency that can occur in long-standing, untreated hypothyroidism. Diagnosis is based on laboratory results consistent with hypothyroidism and corresponding clinical manifestations. Treatment should be started quickly given the increased risk of mortality. Signs and Symptoms of Myxedema Coma
Treatment of Myxedema Coma
Nursing Considerations
Thyroid storm refers to elevated thyroid hormone concentrations; thyroid storm is a rare diagnosis and is usually triggered by events such as trauma, myocardial infarction, surgery or infection. Diagnosis of thyroid storm is made using a combination of biochemical laboratory tests confirming thyrotoxicosis in a patient displaying the severe, life-threatening symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Symptoms of Thyroid Storm Clinical manifestations include exaggeration of common hyperthyroid symptoms (anxiety, fatigue, diaphoresis, heat intolerance, tremors, palpitations, tachycardia, weight loss, hyperreflexia, warm and moist skin, menstrual abnormalities). The following may also be present: • Fever • Tachycardia and congestive heart failure • Vomiting • Impaired mental status Treatment of Thyroid Storm
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