Chapter 19: Endocrine and Hematologic Emergencies

Question 1

Alpha cells

Answer 1

Produce glucagon (stimulates breakdown of glycogen).

Question 2

Beta cells

Answer 2

Produce insulin

Question 3

Normal blood glucose

Answer 3

80-120

Question 4

Hyperglycemia

Answer 4

1. Gradual onset

2. AMS, lethargy, severe thirst, visual or sensory deficits, partial paralysis or muscle weakness, seizures.

Question 5

Hypoglycemia

Answer 5

1. Rapid onset
2. Normal to shallow or rapid respirations, pale or moist skin, diaphoresis, dizziness or headache, rapid pulse, AMS, seizure, weakness on one side of the body.

Question 6

Polyuria

Answer 6

Frequent urination. Occurs in DM1 patients as their kidneys are overwhelmed by too much glucose, and it comes out in urine.

Question 7

Polydipsia

Answer 7

Increase in fluid consumption, frequent urination causes dehydration.

Question 8

Polyphagia

Answer 8

Increased food intake.

Question 9

Diabetes Mellitus Type 1

Answer 9

1. Autoimmune disorder where the immune system produces antibodies against pancreatic beta cells, and the pancreas can’t produce insulin.
2. Many patients experience polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, and have pumps to measure blood glucose for them.

Question 10

Ketones

Answer 10

Acid wastes produced as the body burns fat. Kidneys can’t maintain acid base balance and patients breathe rapidly to reduce acid level.

Question 11

Diabetic Keto Acidosis

Answer 11

Occurs when DM 1 goes untreated and fat metabolism and ketone production continues. Indicated by abdominal pain, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and AMS.

Question 12

Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Answer 12

1. Cellular resistance to insulin. Obesity creates predisposition.
2. Can be improved with diet and exercise or medications.
3. Indicated by recurrent infection, change in vision, numbness.

Question 13

Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Syndrome

Answer 13

Occurs when blood glucose levels are not controlled with DM 2.
Symptoms: Hyperglycemia, AMS, dehydration, visual or sensory deficits, partial paralysis, muscle weakness, seizures.

Question 14

Hyperosmolarity (diabetes)

Answer 14

Concentrated blood from dehydration.