Question

The nurse is caring for a client with primary hypothyroidism who is being monitored for the complication of myxedema coma while thyroid level therapy is started. What does the nurse understand are the three major aspects of myxedema coma?

Answer 1

Myxedema coma, a severe hypothyroid complication, includes decreased metabolic rate, impaired mental status, and hypothermia. Treatment requires careful monitoring and adjustment of thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

Myxedema coma is a severe complication of untreated or inadequately treated hypothyroidism and has a high mortality rate. The three major aspects of myxedema coma include a decreased metabolic rate, impaired mental status, and hypothermia. Decreased metabolic rate is central to the condition, leading to symptoms such as extreme fatigue, slow heart rate, and persistent cold intolerance. Additionally, impaired mental status often presents as confusion, lethargy, or even coma. Furthermore, hypothermia, or an abnormally low body temperature, is a hallmark of myxedema coma, sometimes dipping below 35°C (95°F), which is a critical situation requiring immediate medical attention.

The treatment for this condition often includes intravenous thyroid hormone replacement and supportive care to manage the symptoms and protect the body's organ systems. Due to the gravity of myxedema coma, close monitoring and gradual adjustment of replacement thyroid hormone are crucial to ensure that the metabolic demands of the body are appropriately met without further complicating the patient's condition.