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Study Plan for Test Taking for the NCLEX® designed for Bolivar Technical College
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Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hypothyroidism

Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hypothyroidism

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Nichole Weaver
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Included In This Lesson

Study Tools
Outline
ADPIE Related Lessons
Transcript
Additional Lessons

Study Tools For Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hypothyroidism

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (Mnemonic)
Hypothyroidism Pathochart (Cheatsheet)
Endocrine System Study Chart (Cheatsheet)
Hyper vs. Hypothyroidism (Cheatsheet)
Anatomy of the Thyroid Gland (Image)
Physiology of the Thyroid Gland (Image)
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (Image)
Facial Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (Image)
Goiter (Image)
Hypothyroidism Assessment (Picmonic)
Hypothyroidism Intervention (Picmonic)
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Outline

Pathophysiology:

There is a reduction in thyroid hormone secretion. This is caused by an autoimmune disorder attacking the thyroid and causing this reduction.

Overview

  1. Hyposecretion of thyroid hormone
  2. Results in a decreased metabolic rate

Nursing Points

General

  1. Causes
    1. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
    2. Iodine Deficiency
    3. Thyroidectomy
  2. Myxedema Coma
    1. Acute Exacerbation
    2. Life-threatening state of decreased thyroid production
    3. Caused by acute illness, rapid cessation of medication, hypothermia

Assessment

  1. Hypometabolic state
  2. Goiter – enlarged thyroid due to iodine deficiency
  3. ↓ T3, T4, Free T4 hormones
  4. ↑ TSH levels
  5. Cardiovascular
    1. Bradycardia, hypotension
    2. Anemia
  6. Gastrointestinal
    1. Constipation
  7. Neurological
    1. Lethargy, fatigue, weakness
    2. Muscle aches
    3. Paresthesias
  8. Integumentary
    1. Dry skin
    2. Loss of body hair
  9. Metabolic
    1. Cold intolerance
    2. Anorexia
    3. Weight gain
    4. Edema
    5. Hypoglycemia

Therapeutic Management

  1. Medication Therapy
    1. Levothyroxine (Synthroid)
    2. Monitor – possible overdose
  2. Cardiac Monitoring
  3. Maintain open airway, especially with goiter
    1. Have tracheotomy supplies available
  4. IV fluids to support hemodynamics
  5. Administer glucose/dextrose as needed
  6. Encourage nutrition intake
  7. Assess thyroid hormone levels

Nursing Concepts

  1. Hormone Regulation
    1. Administer medications (levothyroxine)
    2. Monitor hormone levels (T3, T4, Free T4, TSH)
    3. Monitor for s/s Myxedema Coma
  2. Thermoregulation
    1. Keep warm
    2. Monitor temperature
  3. Nutrition
    1. Ensure adequate nutritional intake
    2. Daily weights

Patient Education

  1. Do not stop taking medications without discussing with your provider
  2. Smoking Cessation
  3. Routine testing of TSH levels
  4. s/s to report to provider
    1. Could experience hyperthyroid if overdosing medications
    2. Myxedema coma

[lesson-linker lesson=”221768,221505″ background=”white”]

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Transcript

In this lesson we’re going to talk about hypothyroidism. You can already start to guess what this is by the name. Hypo always means low or not enough, and obviously we’re referring to the thyroid gland.

So, hypothyroidism is a condition of decreased secretion of thyroid hormones, so we’ll see decreased levels of T3, T4, and Free T4 in the blood. We’ll also see increased levels of TSH, or Thyroid Stimulating Hormone. Why is that? Well, let’s review how these hormones get secreted. The hypothalamus in the brain releases Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone, which goes to the pituitary gland and tells it to release Thyroid Stimulating Hormone. TSH goes to the Thyroid gland to tell it to secrete more thyroid hormones. Then, when the levels are high enough, the body sends a signal back to the hypothalamus to tell it to stop. That’s called a negative feedback loop. So, when something happens that causes these levels to be super low, that means TSH secretion will increased significantly. Now, there are multiple possible causes like Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, which is an autoimmune disease, Iodine deficiency because those hormones are made from iodine – if I don’t have enough, I can’t make the hormones. But also if the patient has their thyroid removed altogether, that will cause hypothyroidism. So, what does this do? Well…it’s decreased thyroid hormone action. The thyroid hormones are responsible for increased metabolism, growth & development, and increased effect of catecholamines like epinephrine. But, the biggest thing we see is a decreased or slowed metabolic rate.

Now ANY time you think hypothyroidism I want you to think Hypometabolic. Everything is low or slow. It’s like a sloth, things are happening, just VERY slowly, and that can cause a lot of problems. They could have a low temperature and a cold intolerance – I mean think if you were already freezing and someone touches you with a cold bottle of water, you’re gonna freak out right? Since their metabolism is super slow, they’ll see some weight gain, some of which is from peripheral edema. They’ll likely lose their appetite because their gut isn’t moving like it should, and their blood sugar may even be low because of the body’s decreased ability to break down glycogen. In the cardiovascular system we’ll see bradycardia, hypotension, and anemia – again – low and slow. When the gut slows down we start to see serious constipation. It’s also possible to have nausea and even vomiting because of decreased gastric motility. And then, just like we saw in hyperthyroidism, we’ll see the goiter – except this time it’s due to the iodine deficiency. Usually other chemicals come together with the iodine to make the hormones, but they can’t without iodine, so they just build up in the thyroid – causing this goiter. So BOTH hyper and hypothyroidism will have a goiter – just for slightly different reasons. So you have to look at the REST of the clinical picture to understand what’s going on.

Other body systems will be affected, too – in the neurological system we’ll see lethargy, fatigue, muscle aches and weakness, and paresthesias – low and slow nerve impulses, right? Their skin will be dry and pale and they might have puffy eyes and a loss of body hair. Sometimes they will even have this blank expression on their face because of how weak the muscles are – you can see this gentleman has the pale skin, puffy eyes, and expressionless face. Then, as with most diseases, there’s a possibility for acute exacerbation, in this case known as Myxedema Coma. It’s a life threatening condition in which their heart rate and blood pressure dip dangerously low and they can slip into a coma. It can be due to acute illness, or hypothermia, but also if they abruptly stop their medication – so we NEED to teach our patients not to stop their meds without talking to their doctor first.

So when we’re managing hypothyroid patients, we can do a radionuclide scan with radioactive iodine and we’ll see decreased uptake. You can see how this thyroid isn’t very dark – if you watch the hyperthyroid lesson, you’ll see how it looks when it’s fully uptaking that iodine. So if they are hypothyroid and we see decreased uptake, decreased thyroid hormone levels, increased TSH levels, we’ll put them on hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine or Synthroid. We just want to monitor them closely because we don’t want to overdose them and send them into a thyroid crisis. It all needs to be balanced well. Of course we’re going to monitor their heart and give IV fluids to support their blood pressure. We also need to make sure we maintain an open airway. We are always concerned about this with goiter and thyroid swelling and may consider having tracheotomy supplies available just in case. Since they’re at risk for hypoglycemia and anorexia, we want to monitor blood sugars and give dextrose as needed and encourage good nutritional intake. It’s hard to encourage someone to eat more or better when they’re gaining weight because their metabolism is so slow. We just need to educate them about how important good nutrition is, and to trust the medication.

Our priority nursing concepts for patients with hypothyroidism are going to be hormone regulation, thermoregulation, and nutrition. With that hypometabolic state we really need to make sure they’re getting high quality nutritional intake, and taking their meds appropriately, and we’re monitoring for and preventing Myxedema Coma. Make sure you check out the care plan attached to this lesson for more detailed nursing interventions and rationales.
above

So, let’s recap. Hypothyroidism is a state of decreased secretion of thyroid hormones, so we see decreased T3, T4, and free T4 levels and increased TSH levels. It could be caused by Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, or removal of the thyroid altogether. Remember when you think hypothyroid, I want you to think hypometabolic. Their blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature all go down and they might even be weak and fatigued. We want to give levothyroxine to increase their hormone levels and monitor those levels closely so we can prevent the risk of Myxedema Coma or Thyroid Storm.
So those are the basics of hypothyroidism, we’ve created a cheatsheet to help you learn the difference between hyper and hypothyroid so make sure you check that out. Now, go out and be your best selves today. And, as always, happy nursing!

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Study Plan for Test Taking for the NCLEX® designed for Bolivar Technical College

Concepts Covered:

  • Noninfectious Respiratory Disorder
  • Test Taking Strategies
  • Respiratory Disorders
  • EENT Disorders
  • Prenatal Concepts
  • Studying
  • Prefixes
  • Suffixes
  • Acute & Chronic Renal Disorders
  • Disorders of the Adrenal Gland
  • Legal and Ethical Issues
  • Preoperative Nursing
  • Integumentary Disorders
  • Oncology Disorders
  • Musculoskeletal Trauma
  • Bipolar Disorders
  • Disorders of the Posterior Pituitary Gland
  • Hematologic Disorders
  • Community Health Overview
  • Immunological Disorders
  • Renal Disorders
  • Childhood Growth and Development
  • Labor Complications
  • Upper GI Disorders
  • Medication Administration
  • Neurological Emergencies
  • Adulthood Growth and Development
  • Disorders of Pancreas
  • Musculoskeletal Disorders
  • Cardiac Disorders
  • Disorders of the Thyroid & Parathyroid Glands
  • Integumentary Important Points
  • Pregnancy Risks
  • Urinary Disorders
  • Vascular Disorders
  • Eating Disorders
  • Learning Pharmacology
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Basic
  • Basics of NCLEX
  • Factors Influencing Community Health
  • Lower GI Disorders
  • Intraoperative Nursing
  • Integumentary Disorders
  • Neurologic and Cognitive Disorders
  • Trauma-Stress Disorders
  • Central Nervous System Disorders – Brain
  • Somatoform Disorders
  • Fundamentals of Emergency Nursing
  • Dosage Calculations
  • Depressive Disorders
  • Personality Disorders
  • Cognitive Disorders
  • Substance Abuse Disorders
  • Psychological Emergencies
  • Circulatory System
  • Postoperative Nursing
  • Hematologic Disorders
  • Liver & Gallbladder Disorders
  • Infectious Respiratory Disorder
  • Central Nervous System Disorders – Spinal Cord
  • Emergency Care of the Cardiac Patient
  • Concepts of Population Health
  • Peripheral Nervous System Disorders
  • Emotions and Motivation
  • Note Taking
  • Female Reproductive Disorders
  • Delegation
  • Oncologic Disorders
  • Prioritization
  • Postpartum Complications
  • Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders
  • Fetal Development
  • Shock
  • Emergency Care of the Neurological Patient
  • Respiratory Emergencies
  • Labor and Delivery
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders
  • Communication
  • Concepts of Mental Health
  • Health & Stress
  • EENT Disorders
  • Urinary System
  • Digestive System
  • Tissues and Glands
  • Developmental Theories
  • Postpartum Care
  • Cardiovascular Disorders
  • Newborn Care
  • Renal and Urinary Disorders
  • Newborn Complications
  • Musculoskeletal Disorders
  • Infectious Disease Disorders
  • Nervous System
  • Behavior
  • Respiratory System
  • Basics of Human Biology
  • Neurological Trauma
  • Concepts of Pharmacology
  • Microbiology
  • Psychotic Disorders
  • Emergency Care of the Trauma Patient

Study Plan Lessons

Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
12 Points to Answering Pharmacology Questions
ABGs Nursing Normal Lab Values
Care of the Pediatric Patient
Glaucoma
Menstrual Cycle
Time Management
X-Ray (Xray)
54 Common Medication Prefixes and Suffixes
ABG (Arterial Blood Gas) Interpretation-The Basics
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Acute Kidney (Renal) Injury (AKI)
Addisons Disease
Advance Directives
Burn Injuries
Cataracts
Computed Tomography (CT)
Family Planning & Contraception
Informed Consent
Lung Sounds
Study Setting
Vitals (VS) and Assessment
Alveoli & Atelectasis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Cushings Syndrome
Goal Setting
Macular Degeneration
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Preoperative (Preop)Assessment
Pressure Ulcers/Pressure injuries (Braden scale)
Therapeutic Drug Levels (Digoxin, Lithium, Theophylline, Phenytoin)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Diabetes Insipidus (DI)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
Epidemiology
Essential NCLEX Meds by Class
Gas Exchange
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Glomerulonephritis
Growth & Development – Infants
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Herpes Zoster – Shingles
Isotonic Solutions (IV solutions)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Osteoarthritis (OA)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Pancreatitis
Preoperative (Preop) Education
6 Rights of Medication Administration
Cerebral Angiography
Growth & Development – Toddlers
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
Hearing Loss
Hypotonic Solutions (IV solutions)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Osteoporosis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)
Preoperative (Preop) Nursing Priorities
Respiratory Acidosis (interpretation and nursing interventions)
Thrombocytopenia
Blood Transfusions (Administration)
Cardiovascular Angiography
Fractures
Growth & Development – Preschoolers
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hyperthyroidism
Hypertonic Solutions (IV solutions)
Integumentary (Skin) Important Points
Preload and Afterload
Respiratory Alkalosis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Echocardiogram (Cardiac Echo)
Growth & Development – School Age- Adolescent
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hypothyroidism
Legal Considerations
Metabolic Acidosis (interpretation and nursing diagnosis)
Performing Cardiac (Heart) Monitoring
HIPAA
Metabolic Alkalosis
The SOCK Method – Overview
Ultrasound
The SOCK Method – S
The SOCK Method – O
Base Excess & Deficit
The SOCK Method – C
The SOCK Method – K
Biopsy
Anxiety
Basics of Calculations
Brief CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) Overview
Critical Thinking
Cultural Care
Gestation & Nägele’s Rule: Estimating Due Dates
Potassium-K (Hyperkalemia, Hypokalemia)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Angina
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Appendicitis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Asthma
Bloom’s Taxonomy
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Chronic Kidney (Renal) Disease (CKD)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
Dimensional Analysis Nursing (Dosage Calculations/Med Math)
Environmental Health
Fire and Electrical Safety
General Anesthesia
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Gravidity and Parity (G&Ps, GTPAL)
Impetigo
Leukemia
Levels of Consciousness (LOC)
Sodium-Na (Hypernatremia, Hyponatremia)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
Diabetes Management
Dialysis & Other Renal Points
Local Anesthesia
Lymphoma
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Myocardial Infarction (MI)
Oral Medications
Pediculosis Capitis
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Routine Neuro Assessments
What is the NCLEX?
Adjunct Neuro Assessments
Anatomy of an NCLEX Question
Burn Injuries
Chloride-Cl (Hyperchloremia, Hypochloremia)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Fundal Height Assessment for Nurses
Injectable Medications
Moderate Sedation
Oncology Important Points
Somatoform
Technology & Informatics
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Fall and Injury Prevention
Hyperglycaemic Hyperosmolar Non-ketotic syndrome (HHNS)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IV Infusions (Solutions)
Malignant Hyperthermia
Maternal Risk Factors
Complex Calculations (Dosage Calculations/Med Math)
Intracranial Pressure ICP
Mood Disorders (Bipolar)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Ulcerative Colitis(UC)
Cerebral Perfusion Pressure CPP
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Crohn’s Disease
Depression
Isolation Precaution Types (PPE)
Paranoid Disorders
Personality Disorders
Cognitive Impairment Disorders
Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa)
Alcohol Withdrawal (Addiction)
Grief and Loss
Suicidal Behavior
Normal Sinus Rhythm
Physiological Changes
Post-Anesthesia Recovery
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Lab Values
SATA
Sickle Cell Anemia
Absolute Words
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Cholecystitis
Discomforts of Pregnancy
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Heart Failure (CHF)
Hemoglobin (Hbg) Lab Values
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Influenza (Flu)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Postoperative (Postop) Complications
Sinus Bradycardia
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Anaphylaxis
Antepartum Testing
Hematocrit (Hct) Lab Values
Hemophilia
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hepatitis (Liver Disease)
Opposites
Sinus Tachycardia
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Tuberculosis (TB)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Cirrhosis (Liver Disease, Hepatic encephalopathy, Portal Hypertension, Esophageal Varices)
Discharge (DC) Teaching After Surgery
Nutrition in Pregnancy
Pacemakers
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Pneumonia
Same
White Blood Cell (WBC) Lab Values
Atrial Fibrillation (A Fib)
Communicable Diseases
Platelets (PLT) Lab Values
Priority
Coagulation Studies (PT, PTT, INR)
Disasters & Bioterrorism
Nursing Process
Acute vs Chronic
Miscellaneous Nerve Disorders
Premature Ventricular Contraction (PVC)
What do you want me to know?
Duplicate Facts
Ventricular Tachycardia (V-tach)
Repeating Words
Ventricular Fibrillation (V Fib)
Denying Feelings
NCLEX® Question Traps
Albumin Lab Values
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs in Nursing
Outline Question Method (Note taking)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Benzodiazepines
Cholesterol (Chol) Lab Values
Delegation
Drawing Pictures
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hemorrhagic Stroke (CVA)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Hypertension (HTN)
Ammonia (NH3) Lab Values
Artificial Airways
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Endometriosis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Ischemic Stroke (CVA)
Nephroblastoma
Prioritization
Airway Suctioning
Chorioamnionitis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Menopause
Stroke Assessment (CVA)
Triage
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Cardiomyopathy
Gestational Diabetes (GDM)
Stroke Therapeutic Management (CVA)
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
Stroke Nursing Care (CVA)
Ectopic Pregnancy
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Thrombophlebitis (clot)
Hydatidiform Mole (Molar pregnancy)
Gestational HTN (Hypertension)
Infections in Pregnancy
Preeclampsia: Signs, Symptoms, Nursing Care, and Magnesium Sulfate
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Lab Values
Fever
Overview of the Nursing Process
Creatinine (Cr) Lab Values
Dehydration
Fetal Development
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hypovolemic Shock
Seizure Causes (Epilepsy, Generalized)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Cardiogenic Shock
Fetal Environment
Seizure Assessment
Chest Tube Management
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Distributive Shock
Fetal Circulation
Seizure Therapeutic Management
Urinalysis (UA)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Seizure
Glucose Lab Values
Process of Labor
Vomiting
Pediatric Gastrointestinal Dysfunction – Diarrhea
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C)
Mechanisms of Labor
Therapeutic Communication
Defense Mechanisms
Leopold Maneuvers
Celiac Disease
Fetal Heart Monitoring (FHM)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Meningitis
Appendicitis
Intussusception
Abuse
Constipation and Encopresis (Incontinence)
Patient Positioning
Complications of Immobility
Conjunctivitis
Prolapsed Umbilical Cord
Acute Otitis Media (AOM)
Placenta Previa
Abruptio Placentae (Placental abruption)
Tonsillitis
Preterm Labor
Urinary Elimination
Bowel Elimination
Precipitous Labor
Dystocia
Pain and Nonpharmacological Comfort Measures
Hygiene
Overview of Developmental Theories
Postpartum Physiological Maternal Changes
Bronchiolitis and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
MAOIs
Postpartum Discomforts
Breastfeeding
Asthma
SSRIs
Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
TCAs
Congenital Heart Defects (CHD)
Intake and Output (I&O)
Defects of Increased Pulmonary Blood Flow
Blood Glucose Monitoring
Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH)
Defects of Decreased Pulmonary Blood Flow
Mastitis
Insulin
Obstructive Heart (Cardiac) Defects
Mixed (Cardiac) Heart Defects
Specialty Diets (Nutrition)
Enteral & Parenteral Nutrition (Diet, TPN)
Histamine 1 Receptor Blockers
Initial Care of the Newborn (APGAR)
Nephrotic Syndrome
Enuresis
Newborn Physical Exam
Body System Assessments
Histamine 2 Receptor Blockers
Newborn Reflexes
Babies by Term
Cerebral Palsy (CP)
Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System
Head to Toe Nursing Assessment (Physical Exam)
Meconium Aspiration
Meningitis
Transient Tachypnea of Newborn
Hyperbilirubinemia (Jaundice)
Spina Bifida – Neural Tube Defect (NTD)
ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) Inhibitors
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Newborn of HIV+ Mother
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers
Calcium Channel Blockers
Cardiac Glycosides
Scoliosis
Metronidazole (Flagyl) Nursing Considerations
Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) Nursing Considerations
Vancomycin (Vancocin) Nursing Considerations
Anti-Infective – Penicillins and Cephalosporins
Atypical Antipsychotics
Rubeola – Measles
Mumps
Varicella – Chickenpox
Pertussis – Whooping Cough
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
Sympathomimetics (Alpha (Clonodine) & Beta (Albuterol) Agonists)
Parasympathomimetics (Cholinergics) Nursing Considerations
Parasympatholytics (Anticholinergics) Nursing Considerations
Diuretics (Loop, Potassium Sparing, Thiazide, Furosemide/Lasix)
Epoetin Alfa
HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors (Statins)
Magnesium Sulfate
NSAIDs
Corticosteroids
Hydralazine (Apresoline) Nursing Considerations
Nitro Compounds
Vasopressin
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Acute Kidney (Renal) Injury (AKI)
Addiction – Behavioral Problems Nursing Mnemonic (The 5 D’s)
Addisons Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (STEROID)
ADLs (Activity of Daily Living) Nursing Mnemonic (BATTED)
Adrenal Gland Hormones Nursing Mnemonic (The 3 S’s)
Airborne Precaution Diseases Nursing Mnemonic (MTV)
Alcoholism – Outcomes Nursing Mnemonic (BAD)
Alkalosis and Acidosis Nursing Mnemonic (Kick Up, Drop Down)
Altered Mental Status Nursing Mnemonic (AEIOU TIPS)
Alzheimer – Diagnosis Nursing Mnemonic (The 5 A’s)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Anemia
Anion Gap Acidosis 1 Nursing Mnemonic (KULT)
Anion Gap Acidosis 2 Nursing Mnemonic (MUDPILES)
Anorexia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (ANOREXIA)
Anticholinergics – Side Effects Nursing Mnemonic (4 Can’ts)
Aortic Aneurysm – Management Nursing Mnemonic (CRAM)
Aortic Aneurysm – Thoracic signs Nursing Mnemonic (PEE BADS)
Aortic Stenosis Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (SAD)
Appendicitis – Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (PAINS)
ARDS causes Nursing Mnemonic (GUT PASS)
Arterial Blood Gases Nursing Mnemonic (ROME)
Assessment for Myasthenic Crisis Nursing Mnemonic (BRISH)
Assessment of a Burn Nursing Mnemonic (SCALD)
Assessment of Guillain-Barre Syndrome Nursing Mnemonic (GBS=PAID)
Asthma management Nursing Mnemonic (ASTHMA)
At Risk for Gout Nursing Mnemonic (MALE)
AVPU Mnemonic (The AVPU Scale)
Bacterial Endocarditis – Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (Be Joan Of Arc)
Benzodiazepines Nursing Mnemonic (Donuts and TLC)
Beta 1 and Beta 2 Nursing Mnemonic (1 Heart, 2 Lungs)
Bleeding Complications (Minor) Nursing Mnemonic (BEEP)
Bleeding Precautions Nursing Mnemonic (RANDI)
Blood Type O Nursing Mnemonic (Universally Odd)
BPH Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (FUN WISE)
Bulimia – Signs and Symptoms 1 Nursing Mnemonic (BULIMIA)
Bulimia – Signs and Symptoms 2 Nursing Mnemonic (WASHED)
Cancer – Early Warning Signs Nursing Mnemonic (CAUTION UP)
Cancer – Nursing Priorities Nursing Mnemonic (CANCER)
Canes Nursing Mnemonic (COAL)
Cardiac Valves Blood Flow Nursing Mnemonic (Toilet Paper my Ass)
Caring Licensed Practical Nurse Nursing Mnemonic (CLPN)
Causes of Anaphylaxis Nursing Mnemonic (Many Boys Love Food)
Causes of Chorioamnionitis Nursing Mnemonic (Pregnancies Are Very Interesting)
Causes of Dyspnea Nursing Mnemonic (The 6 P’s)
Causes of Labor Dystocia Nursing Mnemonic (Having Extremely Frustrating Labor)
Causes of Pancreatitis Nursing Mnemonic (BAD HITS)
Causes of Poor Gas Exchange Nursing Mnemonic (All People Can Value Lungs)
Causes of Postpartum Hemorrhage Nursing Mnemonic (4 T’s)
Causes of Renal Calculi Nursing Mnemonic (Patients Complain of Pain and Difficulty Urinating)
Chest Tube Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (Two AA’s)
CHF Treatment Nursing Mnemonic (UNLOAD FAST)
Child Abuse/Neglect – Warning Signs Nursing Mnemonic (CHILD ABUSE)
CHO, CHO, CHON Nursing Mnemonic (CHO, CHO, CHON)
Cholinergic Crisis – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (SLUDGE)
Circulatory Checks (5 P’s) Nursing Mnemonic (The 5 P’s)
Cirrhosis Complications Nursing Mnemonic (Please Bring Happy Energy)
Cleft Lip Repair – Post Op Care Nursing Mnemonic (CLEFT LIP)
Common Pathogens for UTI Nursing Mnemonic (KEEPS)
Common Signs of Parkinson’s Nursing Mnemonic (SMART)
Community Health Tool Nursing Mnemonic (MAP-IT)
Complications of Spinal Cord Injuries Nursing Mnemonic (ABCDEFG)
Complications of Thoracentesis Nursing Mnemonic (Patients Sometimes Bleed Internally)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Heart Failure (CHF)
COPD management Nursing Mnemonic (COPD)
Cor Pulmonale – Signs & Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (Please Read His Text)
Coronary Arteries – Location Nursing Mnemonic (I have a RIGHT to CAMP if you LEFT off the AC)
Cranial Nerve Mnemonic 01 Nursing Mnemonic (Olympic Opium Occupies Troubled Triathletes After Finishing Vegas Gambling Vacations Still High)
Cranial Nerve Mnemonic 02 Nursing Mnemonic (Oh Oh Oh To Touch And Feel Very Good Velvet AH!)
Cranial Nerve Mnemonic 03 Nursing Mnemonic (On Old Obando Tower Top A Filipino Army Guards Villages And Huts)
Crohn’s Morphology and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (CHRISTMAS)
Cushings Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (STRESSED)
Cyanotic Defects Nursing Mnemonic (The 4 T’s)
Decrease ICP Nursing Mnemonic (Craniums Excite Me)
Dementia Nursing Mnemonic (DEMENTIA)
Depression Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (SIGNS)
Diabetes Insipidus Nursing Mnemonic (DDD)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
Diabetes Mellitus Type 1- Signs & Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (The 3 P’s)
Diagnostic Criteria for Lupus Nursing Mnemonic (SOAP BRAIN MD)
Diarrhea – Treatment Nursing Mnemonic (BRAT)
Dissociative Disorders
Diverticulitis Complications Nursing Mnemonic (Please Fix His Abscess SOon)
DKA Treatment Nursing Mnemonic (KING UFC)
Drug Interactions Nursing Mnemonic (These Drugs Can Interact)
Drugs for Bradycardia & Low Blood Pressure Nursing Mnemonic (IDEA)
Drugs that Cause SJS Nursing Mnemonic (I C NASA)
Eczema
Electrolytes – Location in Body Nursing Mnemonic (PISO)
Emergency Drugs Nursing Mnemonic (LEAN)
Environmental Health Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (I PREPARE)
Epiglottitis – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (AIR RAID)
Episiotomy – Evaluation of Healing Nursing Mnemonic (REEDA)
Evaluation of Irregular Moles Nursing Mnemonic (ABCDE)
Exercise Guidelines Nursing Mnemonic (FIT)
Factors That Can Put a Pregnancy at Risk Nursing Mnemonic (RIBCAGE)
Fetal Distress Interventions Nursing Mnemonic (Stop MOAN)
Fetal Wellbeing Assessment Tests Nursing Mnemonic (ALONE)
Fire Safety 1 Nursing Mnemonic (PASS)
Fire Safety 2 Nursing Mnemonic (RACE)
Flu Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (FACTS)
Fractures
GERD causes Nursing Mnemonic (Reflux Is Probably Mean)
Global Symptoms for Brain Tumors Nursing Mnemonic (HAS)
Gluten Free Diet Nursing Mnemonic (BROW)
Heart Failure – Right Sided Nursing Mnemonic (HEAD)
Heart Failure-Left-Sided Nursing Mnemonic (CHOP)
Heart Failure-Origin Nursing Mnemonic (Left – Lung|Right – Rest)
Heart Sounds Nursing Mnemonic (APE To Man – All People Enjoy Time Magazine)
HELLP Syndrome – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (HELLP)
Hemodynamics
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hemorrhagic Stroke (CVA)
Hemorrhagic Stroke Risk Factors Nursing Mnemonic (HATS)
Hiatal Hernia Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (Her Belly Really Hurts Following Dinner)
High Pressure Vent Alarms Nursing Mnemonic (Kings Eat Big Cakes)
High Risk Behavior Nursing Mnemonic (HEADSS)
Hypercalcemia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (GROANS, MOANS, BONES, STONES, OVERTONES)
Hyperglycemia Management Nursing Mnemonic (Dry and Hot – Insulin Shot)
Hyperkalemia – Causes Nursing Mnemonic (MACHINE)
Hyperkalemia – Management Nursing Mnemonic (AIRED)
Hyperkalemia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (Murder)
Hypernatremia – Causes Nursing Mnemonic (MODEL)
Hypernatremia – Signs and Symptoms 2 Nursing Mnemonic (FRIED)
Hypernatremia – Signs and Symptoms 2 Nursing Mnemonic (SWINE)
Hypernatremia – Signs and Symptoms 3 Nursing Mnemonic (SALT)
Hypertension – Nursing care Nursing Mnemonic (DIURETIC)
Hypertension- Complications Nursing Mnemonic (The 4 C’s)
Hypocalcemia – Definition, Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (CATS)
Hypoglycemia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (TIRED)
Hypoglycemia Management Nursing Mnemonic (Cool and Clammy – Give ‘Em Candy)
Hypoglycemia symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (DIRE)
Hypokalemia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (6 L’s)
Hyponatremia- Definition, Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (SALT LOSS)
Hypoxia – Signs and Symptoms (in Pediatrics) Nursing Mnemonic (FINES)
Hypoxia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (RAT BED)
IADLS (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living) Nursing Mnemonic (SCUM)
Increase MAP Nursing Mnemonic (VAK)
Inflammation- Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (HIPER)
Insulin Mnemonic (Ready, Set, Inject, Love)
Interventions for Aphasia Nursing Mnemonic (PROP)
Intra Uterine Device – Potential Problems Nursing Mnemonic (PAINS)
Intrarenal Causes of Acute Kidney Injury Nursing Mnemonic (TONIC)
Leukemia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (ANT)
Levels of consciousness Nursing Mnemonic (Never Carry Dirty Socks Or Smelly Clothes)
Lidocaine Toxicity – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (SAMS)
Low Pressure Vent Alarms Nursing Mnemonic (Cake Everyday)
Lymphoma – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (NURSE For Pete’s Sake)
Management of Glomerulonephritis Nursing Mnemonic (Please Help Deliver Diuretics)
Management of Lyme Disease Nursing Mnemonic (BAR)
Management of Pressure Ulcers (Pressure Injuries) Nursing Mnemonic (SKIN)
Manic Attack – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (DIG FAST)
MAO Inhibitors Nursing Mnemonic (TIPS)
Medication Classess for IBD Nursing Mnemonic (Sometimes I Can’t Answer)
Medications for Pancreatitis Nursing Mnemonic (Please Make Tummy Better)
Medications to Prevent Seizures Nursing Mnemonic (Pretty Little Liars Forever)
Meningitis Assessment Findings Nursing Mnemonic (FAN LIPS)
Mnemonic for Organ Systems (MR DICE RUNS)
Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (DEMYELINATION)
Murmur locations Nursing Mnemonic (hARD ASS MRS. MSD)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Myocardial Infarction (MI)
Myocardial Infarction Nursing Mnemonic (MONATAS)
OB Non-Stress Test Results Nursing Mnemonic (NNN)
OLD CARTS Mnemonic (OLD CARTS)
Oral Birth Control Pills – Serious Complications Nursing Mnemonic (Aches)
Pain Assessment Questions Nursing Mnemonic (OPQRST)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Parkinsons
Asthma
Pediatric Gastrointestinal Dysfunction – Diarrhea
Pharmacokinetics Nursing Mnemonic (ADME)
Planning Community Health Interventions Nursing Mnemonic (PRECEDE-PROCEED)
Pneumonia Risk Factors Nursing Mnemonic (VENTS)
Pneumothorax Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (P-THORAX)
Possible Infections During Pregnancy Nursing Mnemonic (TORCH)
Post-Partum Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (BUBBLE)
Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH)
Preeclampsia: Signs, Symptoms, Nursing Care, and Magnesium Sulfate
Pregnancy Outcomes Nursing Mnemonic (GTPAL)
Probable Signs of Pregnancy Nursing Mnemonic (CHOP BUGS)
Process of Labor – Mom Nursing Mnemonic (4 P’s)
Process of Labor – Baby Nursing Mnemonic (ALPPPS)
Promotion and Evaluation of Normal Elimination Nursing Mnemonic (POOPER SCOOP)
Prostate Nursing Mnemonic (FUN)
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Pulmonary edema treatment Nursing Mnemonic (MAD DOG)
Pupil Reactions Nursing Mnemonic (PERRLA)
Reactivation of Herpes Zoster Nursing Mnemonic (FICA)
Reasons for a Bronchoscopy Nursing Mnemonic (Please Assess His Weird Bronchoscopy Results)
Reasons for Chest Tube Nursing Mnemonic (Don’t Ever Fail)
Restrictive Lung Disease Causes Nursing Mnemonic (PAINT)
Rheumatoid Arthritis Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (RHEUMATOID)
Risk Factors for Cholelithiasis Nursing Mnemonic (5-F’s)
Risk Factors for Osteoporosis Nursing Mnemonic (ACCESS)
Safety Check Nursing Mnemonic (MADLE)
SBAR Communication Nursing Mnemonic (SBAR)
Schizophrenia
Scleroderma Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (CREST)
Seizure Causes Nursing Mnemonic (VITAMIN)
Seizure Documentation Nursing Mnemonic (TDOC)
Senile Dementia – Assess for Changes Nursing Mnemonic (JAMCO)
Shock – Signs and symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (TV SPARC CUBE)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate antidiuretic Hormone Secretion)
Signs of Osteoarthritis Nursing Mnemonic (OSTEO)
Sprains and Strains – Nursing Care Nursing Mnemonic (RICE)
SSRI’s Nursing Mnemonic (Effective For Sadness, Panic, and Compulsions)
Stages of Fetal Development Nursing Mnemonic (Proficiently Expanding Fetus)
Stages of Hepatitis Nursing Mnemonic (PIP)
Steps in the Nursing Process 1 Nursing Mnemonic (ADPIE)
Steps in the Nursing Process 2 Nursing Mnemonic (AAPIE)
Steps In The Nursing Process 3 Nursing Mnemonic (SOAPIE)
Steroids – Side Effects Nursing Mnemonic (6 S’s)
Stoke Assessments Nursing Mnemonic (FAST)
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism Nursing Mnemonic (SWEATING)
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism Nursing Mnemonic (MOM’S SO TIRED)
Symptoms of Nephrotic Syndrome Nursing Mnemonic (NAPHROTIC)
Symptoms of Wernicke’s Encephalopathy Nursing Mnemonic (COAT)
TB Drugs Nursing Mnemonic (RIPE)
Toxicity Sepsis- Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (The 6 T’s)
Tracheal Esophageal Fistula – Sign and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (The 3 C’s)
Traction – Nursing Care Nursing Mnemonic (TRACTION)
Transient Incontinence – Common Causes Nursing Mnemonic (P-DIAPERS)
Trauma – Assessment (Emergency) Nursing Mnemonic (ABCDEFGHI)
Trauma – Complications Nursing Mnemonic (TRAUMATIC)
Trauma Surgery – Medical History Nursing Mnemonic (AMPLE)
Treatment of Sickle Cell Nursing Mnemonic (HOP to the hospital)
Triage Nursing Mnemonic (START)
Two pathways of the peripheral nervous system Nursing Mnemonic (SAME)
Types of Anemia Nursing Mnemonic (Always Introduce Special Patients)
Types of Hemorrhoids Nursing Mnemonic (Pie)
Ulcerative Colitis – Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (MADE 10)
Umbilical Cord Vasculature Nursing Mnemonic (2A1V)
Vascular Disease – Deep Vein Thrombosis Nursing Mnemonic (HIS Leg Might Fall off)
Vascular disease – Raynaud’s symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (COLD HAND)
Vasospasm Therapy Nursing Mnemonic (Triple H Therapy)
VEAL CHOP Nursing Mnemonic (Fetal Accelerations and Decelerations) (VEAL CHOP)
Vitamins – Fat Soluble Nursing Mnemonic (All Dogs Eat Kibble)
Vitamins – Water Soluble Nursing Mnemonic (Birth Control)
Walkers Nursing Mnemonic (Wandering Wilma Always Late)
Who Needs Dialysis Nursing Mnemonic (AEIOU)