Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to F I Coffland.
Endocrine disorders can affect the cardiovascular system in many ways. Patients admitted to an intensive care unit with primary cardiovascular diagnoses may have underlying endocrine dysfunction that can cause or adversely influence cardiovascular problems. Early diagnosis and treatment of endocrine disease can often prevent or reverse cardiovascular problems and contribute to more acceptable patient outcomes.
Blood component replacement therapy is required frequently for critically ill patients. Critical care nurses have a major role in monitoring patients for transfusion reactions and response to therapy. A fundamental understanding of blood components, as well as indications for and complications and hazards of component therapy, is essential for accurate assessment of the patient and evaluation of response to therapy.
Signs and symptoms of thyroid disease are varied and often vague. ICU patients may have cardiac disorders directly related to altered levels of thyroid hormone rather than inherent cardiac disease. Cardiac manifestations of thyroid disease result from a decrease or an increase in circulating hormone and are usually reversible with treatment. Accurate, ongoing assessment, especially after treatment has begun, is important to help guide safe and effective therapy. Patient education is another priority of nursing care and can be a major factor in helping the patient to achieve and maintain a euthyroid state.