Care Of Adults With Complex Illness Endocrine - Disorders For The Hesi Exam

CARE OF ADULTS WITH COMPLEX ILLNESS ENDOCRINE - DISORDERS FOR THE HESI EXAM Labs/diagnostics l Assessment of endocrine function Physical Assessment Inspection The nurse completes a head-to-toe assessment when evaluating a patient for an endocrine disorder, because changes in physical appearance may be apparent. Auscultation During the assessment, the nurse auscultates the chest to assess cardiac rate and rhythm because some endocrine disorders affect cardiovascular function. In patients with hyperthyroidism, tach dysrhythmias may occur and may be auscultated. Palpation The nurse uses palpation to assess the testes and the thyroid glands; both are evaluated for size, symmetry, shape, and any nodules or changes in texture Dx Studies: CT scan, MRI, and X-ray Table 40.3 Laboratory Tests for Endocrine Disorders Test Normal Range for Adults Signicance Calcium 8.2-10.2 mg/dL Decreased in hypoparathyroidism Increased in hyperparathyroidism Decreased by thyrocalcitonin from thyroid gland Ionized calcium 4.6-5.3 mg/dL Decreased in hypoparathyroidism Increased in hyperparathyroidism Cortisol 5-25 mcg/dL (morning) 3-16 mcg/dL (afternoon) Decreased in hypocortisolism (Addisons) Elevated in hypercortisolism (Cushings)Glucose 65-99 mg/dL Increased in diabetes mellitus Increased in hypercortisolism Magnesium 1.6-2.6 mg/dL Decreased in hypoparathyroidism Phosphorus 2.5-4.5 mg/dL Increased in hypoparathyroidism Decreased in hyperparathyroidism Potassium 3.5-5.0 mEq/L Increased in hypocortisolism (Addisons) Decreased in hypercortisolism (Cushings)