Download presentation
Presentation is loading. Please wait.
Published byKerry Rose Modified over 9 years ago
1
Adult Medical-Surgical Nursing Endocrine Module: Hypothyroidism
2
Hypothyroidism: Aetiology Infant cretinism (maternal hypothyroidism) Iodine deficiency (most common cause worldwide) Hashimoto’s disease: chronic thyroiditis (auto-immune: lymphocytes attack thyroid) Grave’s disease end-stage (exhausted) Result of surgery, radiation therapy or overdose of anti-thyroid drugs Occurrence: 5 x more often in females
3
Hypothyroidism Cretinism in infancy: slow growth and development, mental retardation In adult: insidious slowing of body processes → Myxoedema: advanced hypothyroidism → coma and death
4
Hypothyroidism: Pathophysiology Compensatory hypertrophy of thyroid gland if possible (goitre) ↓ BMR Cardiomyopathy ( ↓ contractility) Pericardial effusion Disturbed lipid metabolism ( ↑ cholesterol, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, ↓ cerebral blood flow)
5
Hypothyroidism: Pathophysiology(cont) Accumulation of muco-polysaccharides in tissues → thickened skin Disturbed reproductive cycle Inadequate ventilation → sleep apnoea Reduced erythropoietin levels → reduced bone marrow function
6
Hypothyroidism: Clinical Manifestations Fatigue, lethargy, somnolence ( → coma) Impaired memory, cognition; slow speech Face expressionless, mask-like Feeling cold, sub-normal temperature Bradycardia, hypotension Hair loss, dry coarse thick skin, brittle nails Peri-orbital oedema (puffiness) Muscle weakness
7
Hypothyroidism: Clinical Manifestations (cont) Weight gain Constipation Anaemia Pre-disposition to bruising Menstrual disturbance Hypoventilation and sleep apnoea
8
Hypothyroidism: Diagnosis Patient history and clinical picture Hormonal assays: TSH, T3, T4 Histology of inflamed gland (Hashimotos)
9
Hypothyroidism: Medical Management Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Thyroxine (gradually increased to avoid strain on heart) until euthyroid status Iodine also if iodine-deficiency is the cause
10
Hypothyroidism: Nursing Considerations Patient and family health education Monitor patient’s general condition carefully: temperature, pulse, respirations, BP, patient weight Monitor conscious level and alertness Monitor bowel function to manage constipation Monitor medications and effect
Similar presentations
© 2025 SlidePlayer.com. Inc.
All rights reserved.