Endocrine minus Diabetes Flashcards
What is the mechanism of action for levothyroxine?
Synthetic form of T4
Works the same way as endogenous thyroid
What is the indication of levothyroxine?
Given to replace thyroid gland that can not produce enough T4 or to pts whose gland has been removed
What are the adverse effects of levothyroxine?
Overmedication can result in hyperthyroidism, like tachycardia, palpitations, weight loss, insomnia
What are the interactions with levothyroxine?
Can increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin (coumadin)
What are the nursing responsibilities for levothyroxine?
Continue through pregnancy
obtain baseline v/s and weight
monitor and report signs of cardiac excitability
monitor TSH and T4 levels
What are the pt edu for levothyroxine?
Take daily on an empty stomach before breakfast
take in the morning to decrease the likelihood of insomnia
Full therapeutic effects may take several weeks to occur
Report any unusual symptoms
What is the mechanism of action for corticosteroid (prednisone)?
Cause inhibition of inflammatory and immune responses
What are the indications of corticosteroid (prednisone)?
Severe inflammation and immune response Allergic reactions asthma arthritis dermatitis inflammatory bowel disorders organ transplant
What are the adverse effects of corticosteroid (prednisone)?
Nervousness, insomnia, HTN, Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, peptic ulcers, poor wound healing, osteoporosis, glaucoma, oral candida
What are the contraindications for corticosteroid (prednisone)?
Serious infections
What are the precautions for corticosteroid (prednisone)?
Gastritis
Ulcer Disease
Diabetes
Heart, Liver, Renal Disease
What are the nursing implications for corticosteroid (prednisone)?
Oral forms should be given with food or milk
After using an orally inhaled corticosteroid, instruct pt to rinse mouth to prevent oral fungal infections
Pt should avoid contact with people with infections and report having a fever
Pt should take all adrenal meds at the same time everyday, preferably in the morning with meals
Don’t take with alcohol, aspirin, or NSAIDS
Sudden discontinuation can precipitate an adrenal crisis
Doses are usually tapered before the drug is discontinued
