Thyroid storm--a nursing crisis.

Abstract

A 48-year-old woman with a known history of hypothyroidism was admitted to the intensive care unit with a diagnosis of thyroid storm secondary to acute thyroid hormone poisoning and the possible hyperfunction of a singular thyroid nodule. Her clinical manifestations included pyrexia, tachycardia, tachypnea, hypertension, RUQ abdominal pain, psychotic behavior, and pharyngitis. She was successfully treated with sodium iodide, PTU, propranolol, antibiotics, and a hypothermia mattress, with her serum T4 level returning to normal range prior to discharge. The patient was discharged 9 days after admission in good medical health with no medication. This article clearly shows that the functions of the endocrine system remain a frontier in today's medicine. With research, perhaps one day we might fully understand the intricate pathophysiology that results in thyroid storm. The potential problem format has been utilized in the development of the nursing care plan to assist the nurse with identifying and defining her patient's problems, as well as directing her assessment and nursing intervention. As more is learned about thyroid storm, nurses should update their knowledge so that they will be prepared to care for the patient with these difficult nursing problems.