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Thyroid storm during pregnancy. A medical emergency
Patricia A Waltman1, Joyce M Brewer, Sharon Lobert
1University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing, Jackson, Miss., USA.
Critical Care Nurse
|April 22, 2004
Summary
Thyroid storm poses a significant risk to pregnant women with thyrotoxicosis, often triggered by other factors. Prompt recognition and intervention by critical care nurses are vital to reduce high maternal and fetal mortality rates.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Obstetrics
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Thyrotoxicosis during pregnancy presents a significant risk.
- Thyroid storm is a severe, life-threatening complication of thyrotoxicosis.
Observation:
- Thyroid storm is frequently precipitated by events like labor, delivery, infection, or trauma.
- It often affects individuals with undertreated or undiagnosed hyperthyroidism.
Findings:
- Maternal and fetal mortality rates associated with thyroid storm range from 20% to 30%.
- Early identification and management are crucial.
Implications:
- Critical care nurses require specialized knowledge to manage thyroid storm effectively.
- Prompt nursing and medical interventions are essential for improving maternal and fetal outcomes.