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Thyroid storm--a nursing crisis
Heart & Lung : the Journal of Critical Care
|March 1, 1983
Summary
This case study details a patient successfully treated for thyroid storm caused by acute thyroid hormone poisoning. Effective management highlights the importance of understanding endocrine system disorders.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Thyroid storm is a life-threatening endocrine emergency.
- Acute thyroid hormone poisoning can precipitate thyroid storm.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old woman with hypothyroidism presented with pyrexia, tachycardia, hypertension, and altered mental status.
- Clinical signs included tachypnea, RUQ abdominal pain, psychotic behavior, and pharyngitis.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with thyroid storm secondary to acute thyroid hormone poisoning and a hyperfunctioning thyroid nodule.
- Treatment involved sodium iodide, propylthiouracil (PTU), propranolol, antibiotics, and supportive care.
- Serum T4 levels normalized, and the patient was discharged in good health within 9 days.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical role of prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary management in thyroid storm.
- Further research into the pathophysiology of thyroid storm is essential for advancing patient care.
- Nursing care plans are vital for managing complex endocrine emergencies like thyroid storm.