Question

Thyroid storm is caused by the acute hyperfunction of the thyroid gland and is a true medical emergency that requires emergent hospital intervention. Which of the following signs and symptoms would a paramedic expect a patient experiencing a thyroid storm to exhibit?

A. Tachycardia, bradypnea, hypothermia, gastrointestinal upset, and listlessness

B. Bradycardia, tachypnea, hypothermia, palpitations, and lethargy

C. Tachycardia, tachypnea, hyperthermia, palpitations, and delirium

D. Bradycardia, bradypnea, hyperthermia, confusion, and delirium

Answer 1

A patient with thyroid storm would most likely exhibit tachycardia, tachypnea, hyperthermia, palpitations, and delirium. This condition is a result of excessive thyroid hormone production and requires immediate medical attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

A thyroid storm is a severe and life-threatening condition due to an acute hyperfunction of the thyroid gland. The correct signs and symptoms that a paramedic might expect in a patient experiencing a thyroid storm include: tachycardia (rapid heart rate), tachypnea (rapid breathing), hyperthermia (elevated body temperature), palpitations, and delirium. These symptoms reflect the excessive production of thyroid hormones, which can accelerate various physiological processes, leading to a heightened metabolic state.

Graves' disease, a common cause of hyperthyroidism, shares many symptoms with a thyroid storm, such as rapid and irregular heartbeat, heat intolerance, and weight loss. If a thyroid storm is suspected, immediate hospital intervention is necessary to treat and stabilize the patient.