Hyperthyroidism: NCLEX Priorities
Graves' disease, thyroid storm, methimazole/PTU, beta-blocker for symptoms.
Hyperthyroidism is excess thyroid hormone. NCLEX tests Graves', meds, and thyroid storm.
Recognition
Weight loss, heat intolerance, tachycardia, tremor, diarrhea, anxiety. Exophthalmos and pretibial myxedema in Graves'. Goiter.
Treatment
Methimazole first-line. PTU in pregnancy 1st trimester or thyroid storm. Beta-blocker for symptom relief (tachy, tremor, anxiety). Radioactive iodine ablation. Thyroidectomy.
Thyroid storm
Severe hyperthyroidism + trigger (infection, surgery). Fever, tachy, agitation, organ failure. PTU, beta-blocker, steroids, cooling, IV fluids. Treat precipitant. ICU.
Frequently asked
Why PTU vs methimazole in pregnancy?
Methimazole 1st trimester teratogenicity. Switch to methimazole 2nd/3rd.
RAI and pregnancy?
Contraindicated. Pregnancy testing before. Avoid pregnancy 6 mo after.
Quick check
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