Management of the patient with thyroid disease.

The nursing care of patients with thyroid problems requires an understanding of the disease process so that a through history is obtained to facilitate diagnosis, treatment, and patient education. To understand the pathophysiology of thyroid diseases, thyroid hormone synthesis, transport, and metabolic effects, as well as the regulation of thyroid function by the hypothalamic-pituitary feedback system have been reviewed. Frequently used thyroid laboratory measures and diagnostic tests are outlined herein. The focus of this article has been the assessment and management of thyroid diseases commonly encountered in an ambulatory setting: goiter, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroiditis, and thyroid nodules. Proper assessment and management of patients with thyroid disorders are cost effective and have significant impact on the health and well-being of our patients.