Hyperthyroid | Nclex Review | TOP MED SURG STUDY TIP | Nursingsos HYPERTHYROID Pathophysiology There is too much thyroid hormone in the body (T3 and T4). Thyroid hormone is responsible for balancing the body's metabolism. When there is too much thyroid hormone, the body's metabolism will be faster. Critical Thinking TipNotice how the signs and symptoms all relate back to the pathophysiology. • These are all related to an increase in metabolism (everything is speeding up). Think of the body internally running a marathon. Signs and Symptoms • Irritability • Difficulty sleeping • Shakiness or tremors • Weight loss • Sweaty (intolerance to heat) • Elevated HR, RR, BP • Cardiac palpitations and arrythmias • Soft skin and hair • Diarrhea • Menstrual changes • Goiter • Bulging eyeballs Nursing Assessment • Assess for common signs and symptoms • ECG and cardiac assessment • Monitor blood pressure • Daily weight checks • Palpate thyroid gland • Lab values . T3 . T4 . TSH Critical Thinking TipThyroid storm symptoms can come on suddenly because of too much thyroid hormone flooding the system. Watch for tachycardia, arrythmias, hypertension, and fever. Nursing Interventions • Continuously assess cardiac status . • Monitor vital signs . • Maintain a cool and calm environment . • Encourage rest . • Daily weight checks . • Encourage high calorie foods . • Medication management - Antithyroid -  Antiarrhythmics - Anti hypertensives •  Assess for thyroid storm .
