Question

A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who is experiencing a thyroid storm. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply)

a) Hyperthermia
b) Bradycardia
c) Hypertension
d) Delirium
e) Respiratory distress

Answer 1

A client experiencing a thyroid storm would commonly present with hyperthermia, hypertension, delirium, and respiratory distress. Thyroid storm is associated with elevated thyroid hormone levels, resulting in increased metabolism and sympathetic nervous system activity, which explain these symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse who is caring for a client experiencing a thyroid storm should expect several key manifestations due to the sudden increase in thyroid hormones, which can lead to a dangerously high metabolic state. The manifestations of a thyroid storm include:

• Hyperthermia: An elevated body temperature due to increased metabolic rate.
• Hypertension: High blood pressure as a result of increased cardiac output and heightened sympathetic nervous system activity.
• Delirium: Mental status changes including confusion and altered consciousness arising from the effects of excess thyroid hormones on the central nervous system.
• Respiratory distress: Difficulty breathing, which can be exacerbated by the increased oxygen demand and consumption related to hypermetabolism.

Bradycardia is not expected in a thyroid storm as this condition typically leads to tachycardia rather than a slowed heart rate.