Nursing Care

RENAL SYSTEM • Monitor I&O, weight, BP

• Sodium/fluid restriction
• Watch for renal failure or encephalopathy

Got it — Here’s Acute

Glomerulonephritis simplified:
Got it — Here’s Nephrotic Syndrome
What it is simplified:
• Inflammation of the glomeruli → ↓
filtration, fluid retention, and kidney What it is
dysfunction. • Glomerular damage → large protein loss in
Like your kidney’s filters are clogged and urine → edema & hypoalbuminemia.
swollen. Like a sieve leaking protein instead of
keeping it.
Causes
• Post-streptococcal infection (1–3 weeks Causes
after sore throat/skin infection) • Glomerulonephritis, lupus, diabetes,
• Autoimmune diseases (SLE) amyloidosis, toxins, drugs.
• Bacterial/viral infections
Risk Factors
Risk Factors • Children (minimal change disease)
• Children & young adults • Chronic kidney disorders
• Recent throat/skin infection
• Family history of kidney disease Signs & Symptoms
• Massive proteinuria (> 3.5 g/day)
Signs & Symptoms • Hypoalbuminemia → edema (face,
• Cola-colored urine (hematuria) abdomen, legs)
• Proteinuria, oliguria • Hyperlipidemia, lipiduria
• Facial/periorbital edema → generalized • Fatigue, anorexia
edema
• Hypertension, fatigue, flank pain Diagnosis
• UA → protein, lipid casts
Diagnosis • ↓ Albumin, ↑ Cholesterol
• ↑ BUN/creatinine • Renal biopsy
• UA → RBCs, casts, protein
• ASO titer (+) post-strep Management
• Renal ultrasound/biopsy • Corticosteroids (prednisone)
• Diuretics, ACE inhibitors
Management • Low-sodium, moderate-protein diet
• Treat cause – antibiotics (penicillin) • Manage edema & infection risk
• Control BP – antihypertensives, diuretics
• Limit protein, sodium, fluids Nursing Care
• Bed rest during acute phase • Daily weight, I&O
• Skin care for edema
• Prevent infection
 • Watch K⁺ & ECG changes
• Prevent infection & overload
Got it — Here’s Acute Kidney Injury
(AKI) simplified:

What it is Got it — Here’s Chronic Kidney

• Sudden ↓ kidney function → waste Disease (CKD) simplified:
accumulation & fluid/electrolyte imbalance.
Usually reversible if treated early. What it is
• Progressive, irreversible loss of kidney
Causes (3 types) function over months/years.
Kidneys slowly “wear out.”
1. Prerenal: ↓ blood flow – shock,
dehydration, heart failure Causes
2. Intrarenal: kidney tissue damage – • Diabetes mellitus, hypertension (2 most
nephrotoxins, glomerulonephritis, common)
ischemia • Glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney
3. Postrenal: obstruction – stones, disease, recurrent UTI
BPH, tumors
Stages
Stages 1 → Normal GFR > 90
2 → Mild 60–89
1. Oliguric → urine < 400 mL/day 3 → Moderate 30–59
2. Diuretic → ↑ urine output 4 → Severe 15–29
3. Recovery → gradual improvement 5 → End-stage < 15 mL/min

Signs & Symptoms Signs & Symptoms

• Oliguria/anuria • Weakness, fatigue, pruritus
• Fluid overload – edema, crackles, ↑ BP • Uremic frost, ammonia breath
• ↑ BUN/creatinine, ↑ K⁺, ↓ Na⁺ • Edema, hypertension
• Confusion, nausea, uremic breath • N/V, anorexia, anemia
• Oliguria → anuria
Diagnosis
• Labs (BUN, Cr, electrolytes) Diagnosis
• UA → casts, protein • ↑ BUN/creatinine, ↓ GFR
• Ultrasound/CT • Electrolyte imbalance – ↑ K⁺, P; ↓ Ca
• Ultrasound/biopsy
Management
• Treat cause – restore perfusion or remove Management
obstruction • Control cause (BP, sugar)
• Diuretics (furosemide), fluids (careful) • Restrict Na⁺, K⁺, protein, fluids
• Dialysis if severe • Erythropoietin & iron for anemia
• Restrict K⁺, Na⁺, fluids • Dialysis or transplant

Nursing Care Nursing Care

• Monitor I&O, daily weight • Monitor weights, I&O, labs
• Teach diet & meds What it is
• Watch for uremic symptoms • Stones/crystals form in kidneys or urinary
tract → blockage & pain.

Causes
Got it — Here’s Urinary Tract • Dehydration, high Ca or uric acid,
Infection (UTI) simplified: infection, immobility.

What it is Types
• Infection anywhere in the urinary system – • Calcium, uric acid, struvite, cystine.
urethra, bladder, ureters, or kidneys.
Signs & Symptoms
Causes • Severe flank pain → radiates to groin
• Bacteria (E. coli most common) • Hematuria, dysuria
• Poor hygiene, catheters, urinary stasis • N/V, diaphoresis

Risk Factors Diagnosis

• Female, pregnancy, diabetes, obstruction • UA, KUB x-ray, IV pyelogram, CT.

Signs & Symptoms Management

• Dysuria, frequency, urgency • Hydration (3 L/day)
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine • Pain relief – opioids, NSAIDs
• Suprapubic pain • Lithotripsy (shock-wave), stent placement,
• Fever/chills (upper UTI) surgery
• Dietary changes – ↓ oxalate/purine foods
Diagnosis
• UA + C&S → bacteria, WBCs, nitrites Nursing Care
• Ultrasound (if recurrent) • Strain urine for stones
• Encourage fluids
Management • Teach prevention & diet
• Antibiotics – nitrofurantoin, TMP-SMX,
ciprofloxacin
• Hydration (2–3 L/day)
• Analgesics – phenazopyridine (orange
urine effect) REPRODUCTIVE
Nursing Care SYSTEM DISORDERS
• Wipe front to back
• Void after sex
• Avoid irritants (caffeine, alcohol,
perfumed soaps) Got it — Here’s Benign Prostatic
Hyperplasia (BPH) simplified:

What it is
Got it — Here’s Urolithiasis (Renal • Noncancerous enlargement of the prostate
Calculi) simplified: gland → compresses urethra → urinary
obstruction. Got it — Here’s Prostate Cancer
Like a “ring tightening” around the urine simplified:
tube.
What it is
Causes • Malignant tumor of the prostate gland.
• Aging → hormonal changes (↑ DHT).
• Family history, obesity, inactivity. Causes / Risk Factors
• Age > 50, family history.
Risk Factors • High-fat diet, African ancestry, hormone
• Men > 50 years imbalance.
• Smoking, alcohol, hypertension, diabetes.
Signs & Symptoms
Signs & Symptoms • Early: often asymptomatic.
• Weak urine stream, hesitancy, dribbling. • Later: hesitancy, dribbling, hematuria,
• Nocturia, urgency, frequency. nocturia.
• Incomplete bladder emptying, retention, • Bone pain (metastasis).
infection.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis • DRE → hard, irregular prostate.
• DRE → enlarged, non-tender prostate. • PSA ↑ (> 10 suspicious).
• PSA test (< 4 ng/mL normal). • Biopsy → confirms malignancy.
• Postvoid residual urine (PVR). • Bone scan → check metastasis.
• Ultrasound, cystoscopy.
Management
Management • Surgery → radical prostatectomy.
• Medications: • Radiation, hormone therapy (leuprolide).
• Chemotherapy (advanced cases).
• Alpha-blockers → tamsulosin
(relaxes bladder neck). Nursing Care
• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors → • Monitor urinary output post-op.
finasteride (shrinks prostate). • Teach catheter care & Kegel exercises.
• Procedures: • Support sexual health counseling.
• TURP (transurethral resection of
prostate).
• Laser prostatectomy.
• Avoid decongestants, Got it — Here’s Polycystic Ovary
anticholinergics (cause retention).
Syndrome (PCOS) simplified:
Nursing Care
What it is
• Post-TURP: continuous bladder irrigation
• Hormonal disorder → ovaries produce
(CBI) — monitor for bright red bleeding or
excess androgens → many small cysts form.
clots.
Like “tiny balloons” on the ovaries affecting
• Maintain catheter patency, measure I&O.
ovulation.
• Encourage fluids, avoid straining.
Causes Risk Factors
• Genetic + insulin resistance → ↑ LH, ↓ • Multiple sexual partners.
FSH. • Unprotected sex.
• Douching.
Risk Factors
• Family history, obesity, sedentary lifestyle. Signs & Symptoms
• Lower abdominal pain, tenderness.
Signs & Symptoms • Fever, chills, purulent vaginal discharge.
• Irregular periods, amenorrhea. • Irregular menses, dyspareunia (painful
• Hirsutism, acne, oily skin. sex).
• Weight gain, infertility.
• Acanthosis nigricans (dark neck/skin Diagnosis
folds). • Cervical cultures (+ for STI).
• Pelvic ultrasound.
Diagnosis • Laparoscopy (confirm inflammation).
• Pelvic ultrasound → multiple cysts.
• Labs: ↑ LH/androgen, ↓ FSH. Management
• Glucose tolerance test, lipid panel. • Broad-spectrum IV antibiotics (cefoxitin +
doxycycline).
Management • Bed rest in semi-Fowler’s (drainage).
• Weight reduction, diet & exercise. • Analgesics, fluids.
• Oral contraceptives (regulate menses).
• Metformin (↓ insulin resistance). Nursing Care
• Clomiphene (for fertility). • Educate on STI prevention & safe sex.
• Treat partner simultaneously.
Nursing Care • Monitor for abscess or infertility.
• Teach lifestyle modification.
• Monitor blood sugar & weight.
• Provide emotional support (body image,
fertility). Got it — Here’s Endometriosis
simplified:

What it is
Got it — Here’s Pelvic Inflammatory • Endometrial tissue grows outside the
Disease (PID) simplified: uterus → bleeds during menstruation →
inflammation & pain.
What it is Like “period tissue growing in the wrong
• Infection of the female reproductive organs places.”
(uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries).
Like infection “spreading upward” from Causes
vagina to pelvis. • Retrograde menstruation (backflow of
menses).
Causes • Hormonal or immune factors.
• Untreated STI (gonorrhea, chlamydia).
• Childbirth, abortion, IUD insertion. Risk Factors
• Family history, nulliparity, early menarche.
Signs & Symptoms Management
• Dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia. • Surgery → conization, hysterectomy.
• Chronic pelvic pain. • Radiation, chemotherapy (cisplatin).
• Infertility. • HPV vaccination (Gardasil).
• Abnormal bleeding.
Nursing Care
Diagnosis • Encourage regular Pap tests.
• Laparoscopy (definitive). • Provide post-op care & infection
• Ultrasound, MRI. prevention.
• Offer emotional & sexual health support.
Management
• NSAIDs, oral contraceptives.
• GnRH agonists (leuprolide) → induce
menopause-like state.
• Surgery (laparoscopic ablation, HEMATOLOGIC
hysterectomy). SYSTEM DISORDERS
Nursing Care
• Pain management.
• Support fertility counseling. Got it — Here’s Iron Deficiency
• Educate on medication side effects.
Anemia simplified:

What it is
• Low hemoglobin due to insufficient iron
Got it — Here’s Cervical Cancer → ↓ oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.
simplified: Like “fuel shortage” for your red blood
cells.
What it is
• Malignant growth in cervix → often Causes
caused by HPV infection. • Chronic blood loss (menstruation, ulcers).
• Poor diet, malabsorption (celiac disease).
Risk Factors • Pregnancy (increased demand).
• Early sexual activity, multiple partners.
• HPV 16 & 18 infection. Risk Factors
• Smoking, poor hygiene, low SES. • Women, children, elderly, vegetarians.

Signs & Symptoms Signs & Symptoms

• Early: none or slight discharge. • Fatigue, pallor, weakness.
• Late: postcoital bleeding, pelvic pain, foul • Tachycardia, dyspnea on exertion.
discharge. • Spoon-shaped nails (koilonychia).
• Pica (craving ice, dirt).
Diagnosis
• Pap smear → abnormal cells. Diagnosis
• Colposcopy & biopsy → confirm. • ↓ Hgb, Hct, MCV, ferritin.
• HPV DNA test. • ↓ Serum iron, ↑ TIBC.
Management Nursing Care
• Oral iron supplements (ferrous sulfate). • Safety precautions for neuropathy.
• Take with vitamin C; avoid milk, antacids. • Encourage nutritional compliance.
• Iron-rich diet (liver, leafy greens, red
meat).

Nursing Care Got it — Here’s Aplastic Anemia

• Teach correct iron intake. simplified:
• Monitor stool color (black = expected).
• Watch for constipation. What it is
• Bone marrow failure → ↓ RBCs, WBCs,
and platelets (pancytopenia).
Like a “factory shutdown” for blood
Got it — Here’s Megaloblastic production.
Anemia simplified:
Causes
What it is • Radiation, chemotherapy, toxins.
• RBCs are large (macrocytic) and immature • Autoimmune diseases, infections.
due to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
Like “big, lazy” RBCs that can’t carry Signs & Symptoms
oxygen well. • Pallor, fatigue, dyspnea.
• Petechiae, bleeding gums
Causes (thrombocytopenia).
• B12 deficiency → pernicious anemia (lack • Infections (neutropenia).
of intrinsic factor).
• Folate deficiency → poor diet, alcoholism, Diagnosis
pregnancy. • CBC → pancytopenia.
• Bone marrow biopsy → hypocellular
Signs & Symptoms marrow.
• Fatigue, pallor.
• Glossitis (smooth, red tongue). Management
• B12: paresthesia, loss of balance (neuro • Bone marrow transplant (definitive).
signs). • Immunosuppressants → cyclosporine.
• Blood transfusion, antibiotics.
Diagnosis
• ↓ Hgb/Hct, ↑ MCV. Nursing Care
• ↓ B12 or folate levels. • Reverse isolation.
• Schilling test → B12 absorption. • Bleeding precautions (soft toothbrush,
avoid IM).
Management • Monitor infection signs.
• B12 deficiency → cyanocobalamin IM
monthly (lifelong if pernicious).
• Folate deficiency → folic acid
supplements.
• Diet: green leafy vegetables, liver, eggs,
dairy.
Got it — Here’s Sickle Cell Anemia • Acute Myelogenous (AML) – adults.
simplified: • Chronic Lymphocytic (CLL) – elderly.
• Chronic Myelogenous (CML) – adults
What it is (Philadelphia chromosome).
• Genetic disorder → abnormal HbS causes
RBCs to become sickle-shaped → block Signs & Symptoms
vessels. • Fatigue, pallor, bleeding, fever.
• Bone/joint pain.
Causes • Enlarged spleen/lymph nodes.
• Autosomal recessive trait (HbS gene).
• Triggered by dehydration, infection, cold, Diagnosis
hypoxia. • CBC → ↑ WBC (immature blasts), ↓
platelets, ↓ RBC.
Signs & Symptoms • Bone marrow biopsy → definitive.
• Pain crisis (severe pain, ischemia).
• Jaundice, fatigue. Management
• Delayed growth, ulcers on legs. • Chemotherapy (main treatment).
• Splenomegaly, priapism (prolonged • Stem cell transplant.
erection). • Infection & bleeding prevention.

Diagnosis Nursing Care

• Sickling test, Hb electrophoresis. • Neutropenic precautions (no fresh flowers,
• ↑ Reticulocytes, bilirubin. fruits).
• Monitor temperature closely.
Management • Oral hygiene, rest periods.
• Hydration & oxygen (first).
• Pain relief (morphine).
• Hydroxyurea (↑ fetal Hb).
• Transfusions, folic acid. Got it — Here’s Lymphoma
simplified:
Nursing Care
• Avoid triggers (cold, dehydration). What it is
• Monitor pain, I&O. • Cancer of the lymphatic system (lymph
• Teach infection prevention. nodes, spleen, bone marrow).

Types

Got it — Here’s Leukemia 1. Hodgkin’s Lymphoma → Reed–

simplified: Sternberg cells present.
2. Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma → no
What it is Reed–Sternberg cells.
• Cancer of the bone marrow → abnormal
WBCs crowd out normal cells. Risk Factors
• EBV infection, immunosuppression.
Types
• Acute Lymphocytic (ALL) – children.
Signs & Symptoms • Replace blood products (FFP, platelets).
• Painless lymph node enlargement. • Heparin (only early phase).
• Fever, night sweats, weight loss (B
symptoms). Nursing Care
• Fatigue, itching. • Monitor bleeding & labs.
• Avoid invasive procedures.
Diagnosis • Support oxygen & perfusion.
• Lymph node biopsy.
• CT/MRI for staging.

Management
• Chemotherapy (ABVD regimen). ENDOCRINE
• Radiation therapy. SYSTEM DISORDERS
• Stem cell transplant (advanced).

Nursing Care
• Monitor for infection. Got it — Here’s Diabetes Mellitus
• Manage fatigue, nutrition.
simplified:
• Educate about fertility preservation.
What it is
• Chronic disorder → body can’t properly
use or produce insulin → ↑ blood glucose.
Got it — Here’s Disseminated Like “sugar stays in the blood, not the cells.”
Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
simplified: Types
• Type 1 → no insulin (autoimmune).
What it is • Type 2 → insulin resistance (lifestyle-
• Abnormal clotting throughout the body → related).
uses up platelets/clotting factors → severe • Gestational → during pregnancy.
bleeding.
Causes / Risk Factors
Causes • Family history, obesity, inactivity.
• Sepsis, trauma, obstetric complications • Age > 40 (Type 2), viral infection (Type
(retained fetus, abruption), cancer. 1).

Signs & Symptoms Signs & Symptoms (3 P’s)

• Bleeding from sites (IV, gums, wounds). • Polyuria (pee a lot)
• Petechiae, ecchymosis. • Polydipsia (thirsty)
• Dyspnea, hypotension, shock. • Polyphagia (hungry)
• Weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, slow
Diagnosis healing.
• ↓ Platelets, ↓ fibrinogen.
• ↑ PT/PTT, ↑ D-dimer. Diagnosis
• FBS ≥ 126 mg/dL.
Management • HbA1c ≥ 6.5%.
• Treat cause (sepsis, trauma). • OGTT ≥ 200 mg/dL.
• Random glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL + replacement (K⁺).
symptoms. • Treat underlying cause.

Management Nursing Care

• Type 1: Insulin therapy (rapid → lispro, • Monitor glucose, electrolytes, urine output.
short → regular, intermediate → NPH, long • Watch for hypokalemia as insulin starts
→ glargine). working.
• Type 2: Oral agents (metformin,
sulfonylureas).
• Diet → low fat, high fiber, carb counting.
• Exercise & weight control. Got it — Here’s Hyperglycemic
Hyperosmolar State (HHS)
Nursing Care simplified:
• Monitor glucose & hypoglycemia (cold,
clammy → need candy). What it is
• Rotate injection sites. • Severe hyperglycemia in Type 2 DM
• Educate about foot care, infection without ketosis.
prevention. • Blood becomes thick due to dehydration.

Causes
• Infection, dehydration, stress, elderly.
Got it — Here’s Diabetic
Ketoacidosis (DKA) simplified: Signs & Symptoms
• BG > 600 mg/dL, extreme dehydration.
What it is • Altered LOC, no fruity breath or acidosis.
• Life-threatening complication of Type 1
DM → no insulin → fat breakdown → Diagnosis
ketones → acidosis. • Very high BG, ↑ serum osmolality, no
ketones.
Causes
• Missed insulin, infection, stress. Management
• IV fluids (NS), insulin (low-dose).
Signs & Symptoms • Monitor electrolytes, mental status.
• Polyuria, dehydration, Kussmaul
breathing. Nursing Care
• Fruity breath odor (acetone). • Ensure hydration.
• N/V, abdominal pain, confusion. • Prevent recurrence (med compliance, fluid
intake).
Diagnosis
• BG > 250 mg/dL, ketones in urine/serum.
• ABG → metabolic acidosis (pH < 7.3,
HCO₃ < 18).

Management
• IV fluids (NS), insulin drip, electrolyte
Got it — Here’s Hypoglycemia Diagnosis
simplified: • ↑ Cortisol, ↑ ACTH.
• Dexamethasone suppression test.
What it is • CT/MRI for tumor.
• Blood glucose < 70 mg/dL → too much
insulin or not enough food. Management
• Surgery (adrenalectomy, transsphenoidal).
Causes • Gradual steroid taper.
• Skipped meals, overdose insulin, excess • Low-sodium, high-protein diet.
exercise.
Nursing Care
Signs & Symptoms • Monitor glucose, infection, BP.
• Sweating, tremors, hunger. • Protect from injury (fragile skin).
• Confusion, headache, irritability.
• Severe → seizures, coma.

Management Got it — Here’s Addison’s Disease

• Conscious → 15g fast sugar (juice, candy). simplified:
• Unconscious → glucagon IM or D50 IV.
What it is
Nursing Care • Adrenal insufficiency → ↓ cortisol and
• Check BG before meals/bedtime. aldosterone.
• Teach “Rule of 15” (15g carbs, recheck in Like your body’s “stress hormone tank” is
15 mins). empty.

Causes
• Autoimmune destruction, TB, abrupt
Got it — Here’s Cushing’s Syndrome steroid withdrawal.
simplified:
Signs & Symptoms
What it is • Weakness, fatigue, hypotension.
• Excess cortisol from adrenal cortex → “too • Hyperpigmentation (“bronze skin”).
much stress hormone.” • Weight loss, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia.
Like your body’s stress system stuck on • N/V, craving salty food.
“high.”
Diagnosis
Causes • ↓ Cortisol, ↑ ACTH.
• Long-term steroid use. • ACTH stimulation test.
• Adrenal or pituitary tumor.
Management
Signs & Symptoms • Lifelong corticosteroid replacement
• Moon face, buffalo hump, truncal obesity. (hydrocortisone).
• Muscle wasting, thin skin, purple striae. • ↑ salt intake, manage stress.
• Hyperglycemia, hypertension, mood
changes. Nursing Care
• Monitor for Addisonian crisis → severe
hypotension, shock, ↓ Na⁺, ↑ K⁺. Causes
• Administer IV hydrocortisone, fluids. • Autoimmune (Graves’), thyroid tumor,
• Teach never to stop steroids abruptly. iodine excess.

Signs & Symptoms

• Weight loss, heat intolerance, tachycardia.
Got it — Here’s Hypothyroidism • Tremors, anxiety, insomnia.
simplified: • Exophthalmos (bulging eyes).
• Goiter (enlarged thyroid).
What it is
• Underactive thyroid → ↓ T3 & T4, slow Diagnosis
metabolism. • ↑ T3, T4; ↓ TSH.
Like the body’s “engine” runs too slow. • Thyroid scan (↑ uptake).

Causes Management
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune). • Antithyroid meds → methimazole, PTU.
• Iodine deficiency, thyroidectomy, pituitary • Beta-blockers for symptoms.
failure. • Radioactive iodine therapy or
thyroidectomy.
Signs & Symptoms
• Fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain. Nursing Care
• Bradycardia, constipation. • Post-op: monitor airway, bleeding, calcium
• Dry skin, hair loss, myxedema (puffy (risk hypocalcemia).
face). • Teach lifelong thyroid monitoring.
• Avoid high-iodine foods.
Diagnosis
• ↓ T3, T4; ↑ TSH (primary).

Management NEUROLOGIC
• Levothyroxine (lifelong).
• Low-calorie, high-fiber diet. SYSTEM DISORDERS
Nursing Care
• Take meds in morning, before meals.
• Avoid sedatives (slow metabolism). Got it — Here’s Stroke
• Watch for myxedema coma (coma, (Cerebrovascular Accident – CVA)
hypothermia, bradycardia). simplified:

What it is
• Sudden loss of brain function due to
Got it — Here’s Hyperthyroidism interrupted blood flow → brain cells die.
(Graves’ Disease) simplified: Like “a heart attack in the brain.”

What it is Types
• Overactive thyroid → ↑ T3/T4 → fast • Ischemic (80%) → clot or blockage.
metabolism.
• Hemorrhagic (20%) → blood vessel Signs & Symptoms
rupture. • Sudden weakness, slurred speech, vision
changes, dizziness.
Causes / Risk Factors
• Hypertension, atherosclerosis, diabetes. Diagnosis
• Smoking, obesity, atrial fibrillation. • CT/MRI, carotid Doppler, ECG.

Signs & Symptoms (FAST) Management

• Face drooping • Antiplatelets (aspirin, clopidogrel).
• Arm weakness • Control BP, glucose, cholesterol.
• Speech slurred • Lifestyle changes → quit smoking, diet,
• Time = call emergency exercise.
• Sudden headache (hemorrhagic), vision
loss, paralysis, confusion.

Diagnosis Got it — Here’s Meningitis

• CT scan (rule out bleeding before giving simplified:
tPA).
• MRI, carotid ultrasound, angiography. What it is
• Inflammation of meninges (brain/spinal
Management cord covering).
• Ischemic: tPA (within 3–4.5 hrs), Like “infection around the brain.”
antiplatelets (aspirin).
• Hemorrhagic: control BP, surgery for Causes
aneurysm. • Bacterial (most severe): Neisseria
• Rehab → PT, OT, speech therapy. meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae.
• Viral (milder): enteroviruses, herpes.
Nursing Care
• Monitor neuro status & airway. Risk Factors
• Position head midline, 30° elevation. • Skull fracture, neurosurgery, crowded
• Aspiration precautions → thickened fluids. living (dorms).
• Turn q2h, passive ROM.
Signs & Symptoms
• Fever, headache, nuchal rigidity (stiff
neck).
Got it — Here’s Transient Ischemic • Photophobia, N/V, altered LOC.
Attack (TIA) simplified: • Positive Kernig’s & Brudzinski’s signs.
• Petechial rash (meningococcal).
What it is
• Temporary loss of blood flow to brain → Diagnosis
stroke warning sign. • Lumbar puncture → cloudy CSF (↑
Symptoms resolve within 24 hrs, no protein, ↓ glucose).
permanent damage. • CBC, CT before LP (if ↑ ICP suspected).

Causes Management
• Atherosclerosis, emboli, hypertension. • IV antibiotics (ceftriaxone, vancomycin).
• Dexamethasone ↓ inflammation.
• Droplet isolation 24 hrs after antibiotics.
Got it — Here’s Increased
Nursing Care Intracranial Pressure (ICP)
• Neuro & vital signs monitoring. simplified:
• Seizure precautions, dark room.
• Prevent complications (hearing loss, What it is
shock). • Pressure ↑ inside skull → ↓ brain
perfusion, risk herniation.

Causes
Got it — Here’s Seizure Disorder / • Head injury, stroke, tumor, infection.
Epilepsy simplified:
Signs & Symptoms (early → late)
What it is • Headache, vomiting (projectile).
• Sudden uncontrolled electrical activity in • LOC change (first sign).
brain → changes in movement, sensation, or • Cushing’s triad → ↑ BP (widening pulse
behavior. pressure), ↓ HR, irregular RR.
• Pupil changes, posturing.
Types
• Generalized: tonic-clonic (grand mal). Diagnosis
• Focal/partial: one area of brain. • CT/MRI, ICP monitoring.
• Absence: brief staring spells.
Management
Causes • Mannitol (osmotic diuretic).
• Idiopathic (unknown), brain injury, tumor, • Head midline, HOB 30°, avoid flexion.
infection, electrolyte imbalance. • Limit suctioning, maintain O₂.
• Possible craniectomy.
Signs & Symptoms
• Aura (warning), loss of consciousness, Nursing Care
jerking, postictal confusion. • Frequent neuro checks.
• Prevent ↑ ICP (no coughing/straining).
Diagnosis • Maintain calm environment.
• EEG, MRI/CT, blood tests.

Management
• Anticonvulsants → phenytoin, valproic Got it — Here’s Spinal Cord Injury
acid, carbamazepine. (SCI) simplified:
• Surgery (if focal, drug-resistant).
What it is
Nursing Care • Damage to spinal cord → loss of
• During seizure: protect head, turn to side, motor/sensory function below level of
do not restrain or put objects in mouth. injury.
• Post-seizure: airway, reorient, document.
• Monitor med levels & compliance. Causes
• Trauma (accident, fall, violence).
Types • Paresthesia, areflexia.
• Complete → total loss of function. • Can lead to respiratory failure.
• Incomplete → partial motor/sensory
retention. Diagnosis
• Lumbar puncture → ↑ protein in CSF,
Signs & Symptoms normal cells.
• Paralysis, loss of sensation/reflexes. • EMG → nerve conduction slowed.
• Hypotension, bradycardia.
• Respiratory difficulty (↑ with higher Management
injury). • Supportive → ventilator if needed.
• IV immunoglobulin (IVIG) or
Complications plasmapheresis.
• Spinal shock (flaccid paralysis).
• Autonomic dysreflexia (T6 ↑) → Nursing Care
hypertension, bradycardia, headache. • Monitor respiratory status.
• Prevent immobility complications.
Diagnosis • Support emotional well-being.
• X-ray, CT, MRI.

Management
• Immobilization, corticosteroids
(methylprednisolone early). ENDOCRINE
• Surgery (decompression, stabilization). SYSTEM DISORDERS
Nursing Care
• Prevent skin breakdown, contractures.
• Maintain airway, bowel/bladder training. Got it — Here’s Diabetes Mellitus
• For autonomic dysreflexia: elevate HOB,
simplified:
remove stimulus (full bladder).
What it is
Chronic condition where the body cannot
properly use or produce insulin → blood
Got it — Here’s Guillain–Barré glucose levels rise.
Syndrome (GBS) simplified: (Think: “Sugar stays in the blood, not the
cells.”)
What it is
• Autoimmune attack on peripheral nerves Types
→ ascending paralysis.
Starts in feet and moves upward. 1. Type 1 DM: Pancreas produces little
to no insulin (autoimmune).
Causes / Risk Factors 2. Type 2 DM: Body cells resist insulin
• Post-viral infection, vaccination. (lifestyle-related).
3. Gestational DM: Develops during
Signs & Symptoms pregnancy.
• Weakness → paralysis (legs → arms →
respiratory muscles).
Causes / Risk Factors Causes
Family history, obesity, poor diet, sedentary Skipped meals, excessive insulin dose, over-
lifestyle, hypertension, high cholesterol, age exercising.
> 40, viral infection (Type 1).
Signs & Symptoms
Signs & Symptoms (3 P’s) Sweating, tremors, irritability, hunger,
Polyuria (frequent urination), Polydipsia headache, confusion, tachycardia.
(excessive thirst), Polyphagia (increased Severe: seizures, coma.
hunger).
Other: fatigue, weight loss, blurred vision, Management
slow healing wounds, infections. • If conscious: give 15g fast sugar (juice,
candy, soda).
Diagnosis • If unconscious: give glucagon IM or D50
FBS ≥ 126 mg/dL IV.
RBS ≥ 200 mg/dL + symptoms
OGTT ≥ 200 mg/dL Nursing Care
HbA1c ≥ 6.5% • Teach “Rule of 15”: give 15g carbs →
recheck glucose in 15 min → repeat if
Management needed.
• Type 1: Insulin therapy only (rapid: lispro, • Always carry a sugar source.
short: regular, intermediate: NPH, long:
glargine).
• Type 2: Oral hypoglycemics (metformin,
sulfonylureas). Got it — Here’s Diabetic
• Diet → low fat, high fiber, controlled Ketoacidosis (DKA) simplified:
carbs.
• Exercise & weight control. What it is
Life-threatening emergency in Type 1 DM
Nursing Care due to lack of insulin → fat breakdown →
• Monitor glucose regularly. ketone buildup → metabolic acidosis.
• Teach signs of hypo/hyperglycemia.
• Rotate insulin sites, proper storage. Causes
• Encourage foot care, yearly eye checks, Missed insulin, infection, dehydration,
infection prevention. stress.

Signs & Symptoms

Polyuria, dehydration, dry mouth.
Got it — Here’s Hypoglycemia Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain.
simplified: Kussmaul respirations (deep rapid).
Fruity breath odor (acetone).
What it is Confusion or coma in severe cases.
Blood glucose level < 70 mg/dL — too
much insulin or not enough food intake. Diagnosis
BG > 250 mg/dL
Ketones in urine/serum
ABG: pH < 7.3, HCO₃ < 18 mEq/L
Management • Teach prevention (med adherence,
IV fluids (NS → D5 when BG < 250) adequate fluids).
IV insulin drip (regular insulin)
Replace electrolytes (especially K⁺)
Treat underlying infection/cause.
Got it — Here’s Cushing’s Syndrome
Nursing Care simplified:
• Monitor glucose, K⁺, and urine output.
• Watch for hypokalemia as insulin begins to What it is
act. Overproduction of cortisol by adrenal glands
• Ensure airway and fluid replacement. → “too much stress hormone.”

Causes
Long-term steroid use, adrenal or pituitary
Got it — Here’s Hyperglycemic tumor.
Hyperosmolar State (HHS)
simplified: Signs & Symptoms
Moon face, buffalo hump, truncal obesity.
What it is Muscle weakness, thin skin, purple striae.
Severe hyperglycemia in Type 2 DM Hyperglycemia, hypertension, mood swings.
without ketosis → extreme dehydration and
high plasma osmolality. Diagnosis
↑ Cortisol, ↑ ACTH
Causes Dexamethasone suppression test
Infection, stress, missed meds, dehydration CT/MRI of adrenal or pituitary.
(elderly).
Management
Signs & Symptoms • Remove tumor (adrenalectomy,
BG > 600 mg/dL transsphenoidal surgery).
Extreme dehydration, dry mucous • Gradually taper steroids.
membranes. • Low-sodium, high-protein diet.
Altered mental status, no fruity breath, no
acidosis. Nursing Care
• Monitor BP, glucose, infection.
Diagnosis • Protect fragile skin.
Very high BG, ↑ serum osmolality, no • Educate on steroid withdrawal signs.
ketones, normal ABG pH.

Management
IV fluids (NS then ½ NS), low-dose IV Got it — Here’s Addison’s Disease
insulin, electrolyte correction. simplified:
Nursing Care What it is
• Monitor hydration, neuro status, and Adrenal glands don’t produce enough
electrolytes. cortisol & aldosterone → “low stress
hormone.”
Causes Diagnosis
Autoimmune destruction, TB infection, ↓ T3, ↓ T4, ↑ TSH (primary
sudden steroid withdrawal. hypothyroidism).

Signs & Symptoms Management

Weakness, fatigue, weight loss. • Levothyroxine (Synthroid) → lifelong.
Bronze skin pigmentation. • Low-calorie, high-fiber diet.
Hypotension, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia.
Craving for salt, N/V, diarrhea. Nursing Care
• Take medication in morning before
Diagnosis breakfast.
↓ Cortisol, ↑ ACTH • Avoid sedatives/narcotics (slow
ACTH stimulation test. metabolism).
• Monitor for myxedema coma →
Management hypothermia, bradycardia, coma.
• Lifelong corticosteroid (hydrocortisone,
fludrocortisone).
• High-salt diet, stress management.
Got it — Here’s Hyperthyroidism
Nursing Care (Graves’ Disease) simplified:
• Watch for Addisonian crisis (shock,
severe hypotension). What it is
→ Give IV hydrocortisone, fluids, D5NS. Overactive thyroid → ↑ T3/T4 → increased
• Never stop steroids abruptly. metabolism.
(Think: “Everything speeds up.”)

Causes
Got it — Here’s Hypothyroidism Autoimmune (Graves’), thyroid tumor,
simplified: iodine excess, stress.

What it is Signs & Symptoms

Underactive thyroid → ↓ T3/T4 → slowed Weight loss, heat intolerance, tachycardia.
metabolism. Tremors, anxiety, insomnia, diaphoresis.
(Think: “Everything slows down.”) Exophthalmos (bulging eyes).
Goiter (enlarged thyroid).
Causes
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune). Diagnosis
Iodine deficiency. ↑ T3, ↑ T4, ↓ TSH.
Post-thyroidectomy or pituitary failure. Thyroid scan → increased iodine uptake.

Signs & Symptoms Management

Fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain. • Antithyroid drugs: methimazole, PTU.
Bradycardia, constipation. • Beta-blockers for symptom relief.
Dry skin, brittle hair, puffiness (myxedema). • Radioactive iodine therapy or
thyroidectomy.
Nursing Care Insulin & Oral Hypoglycemics (OHA)
• Post-op: monitor airway, bleeding, and Hyperthyroidism (Graves’)
calcium (hypocalcemia = tingling,
Hypothyroidism
twitching).
• Avoid neck flexion; keep trach set at Hyperparathyroidism
bedside. Hypoparathyroidism
• Teach lifelong thyroid monitoring & avoid Addison’s Disease
high-iodine foods. Cushing’s Syndrome

All in your preferred simple “Got it —

Here’s ___ simplified” format, short, clear,
That’s now your complete Endocrine and ready for direct use in your PDF
System Section — every Diabetes type, reviewer (like your Week 1–5 file).
DKA, HHS, Hypoglycemia, Cushing’s,
Addison’s, Hypo- and Hyperthyroidism Here’s your full, organized Endocrine
covered, all in the same “You said: Like that Section (Week 7–10)
thank you keep going” style.

Would you like me to now compile

everything (Renal → Reproductive →
Hematologic → Endocrine → Neurologic) ENDOCRINE
into one full continuous reviewer text for SYSTEM DISORDERS
Weeks 7–10?
That way it’s ready to copy directly into (COMPLETE REVIEW)
your PDF like Week 1–5.

You said:
Got it — Here’s Diabetes Mellitus
add this too Diabetes Mellitus DM simplified:
Complications Insulin & OHA
Hyperthyroidism Hypothyroidism What it is
Hyperparathyroidism Chronic condition where the body cannot
properly use or produce insulin → ↑ blood
Hypoparathyroidism Addison’s Disease
glucose levels.
Cushing’s Syndrome (Think: “Sugar stays in the blood, not the
ChatGPT said:
cells.”)

Types
Perfect — you want me to create your
• Type 1: No insulin (autoimmune
Endocrine System Reviewer (complete
destruction of beta cells).
version) that includes all 9 key topics
• Type 2: Insulin resistance (cells don’t
below:
respond properly).
• Gestational: Develops during pregnancy.
Diabetes Mellitus (Types 1 & 2)
DM Complications (DKA, HHS,
Hypoglycemia, Chronic complications)
Risk Factors • Management: IV fluids, insulin
Obesity, family history, sedentary lifestyle, drip, K⁺ correction.
hypertension, poor diet, stress, older age. 3. Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar
State (HHS) → Type 2 emergency.
Signs & Symptoms (3 P’s) • S/S: extreme dehydration, high BG
Polyuria, Polydipsia, Polyphagia, weight (>600 mg/dL), no ketones.
loss, fatigue, blurred vision, slow wound • Management: IV fluids, low-dose
healing, infections. insulin, electrolyte replacement.

Diagnosis Chronic Complications

FBS ≥ 126 mg/dL • Macrovascular: CAD, stroke, PVD.
RBS ≥ 200 mg/dL + symptoms • Microvascular: Retinopathy,
OGTT ≥ 200 mg/dL nephropathy, neuropathy.
HbA1c ≥ 6.5% • Infections: Delayed wound healing.

Management Nursing Care

• Type 1: Insulin therapy (lifelong). Maintain tight glucose control, regular
• Type 2: Diet + exercise + oral eye/foot exams, avoid smoking, encourage
hypoglycemics. diet & exercise adherence.
• Controlled carb intake, low fat, high fiber
diet.

Nursing Care Got it — Here’s Insulin & Oral

Monitor glucose regularly, foot care, Hypoglycemics simplified:
infection prevention, rotate insulin sites,
carry sugar source, yearly eye checks. Insulin Types

Onse Pea Duratio Exampl

Type
t k n e
Got it — Here’s Diabetes Mellitus
15 Lispro,
Complications simplified: Rapid
min
1 hr 3-5 hr
Aspart
Acute Complications 30-60 2-4
Short 5-8 hr Regular
min hr
1. Hypoglycemia → low blood sugar Intermediat 1-2 6-12
12-18 hr NPH
(<70 mg/dL) e hr hr
• Cause: skipped meals, excess Glargine
Non
insulin, exercise. Long 1 hr 24 hr ,
e
• S/S: tremors, sweating, confusion, Detemir
headache, hunger.
• Management: give 15g sugar → Administration Tips
recheck in 15 min (“Rule of 15”). • Rotate injection sites (abdomen preferred).
2. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) → • Don’t massage injection site.
Type 1 emergency. • Mix clear (regular) before cloudy (NPH).
• S/S: dehydration, fruity breath, • Store unopened insulin in refrigerator.
Kussmaul respirations, confusion.
Oral Hypoglycemics (OHA) Management
• Antithyroid drugs (Methimazole, PTU).
1. Biguanides (Metformin): ↓ glucose • Beta-blockers for symptom relief.
production, ↑ insulin sensitivity. • Radioactive iodine therapy or
→ Hold 48 hrs before/after contrast thyroidectomy.
studies.
2. Sulfonylureas (Glipizide, Nursing Care
Glyburide): ↑ insulin secretion. Post-thyroidectomy:
→ Risk: hypoglycemia, weight gain. → Monitor airway, bleeding, & calcium
3. Thiazolidinediones (Pioglitazone): (tingling = low Ca²⁺).
↑ insulin sensitivity. → Keep trach set ready.
→ Monitor liver, avoid in heart → Avoid neck flexion.
failure. → Teach lifelong thyroid follow-up.
4. DPP-4 inhibitors (Sitagliptin): ↑
incretin effect.
5. SGLT2 inhibitors (Empagliflozin):
↑ glucose excretion in urine. Got it — Here’s Hypothyroidism
simplified:
Nursing Care
• Monitor BG before meals. What it is
• Teach hypo/hyperglycemia signs. Low thyroid hormone levels → slow
• Encourage consistent meal timing. metabolism.

Causes
Hashimoto’s (autoimmune), iodine
Got it — Here’s Hyperthyroidism deficiency, post-thyroidectomy, pituitary
(Graves’ Disease) simplified: disorder.

What it is Signs & Symptoms

Excess production of thyroid hormones (T3, Fatigue, cold intolerance, bradycardia,
T4) → hypermetabolism. weight gain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss,
myxedema (puffy face).
Causes
Autoimmune (Graves’), thyroid tumor, Diagnosis
iodine excess. ↓ T3/T4, ↑ TSH (primary).

Signs & Symptoms Management

Weight loss, heat intolerance, tachycardia, • Levothyroxine (lifelong, daily before
tremors, anxiety, insomnia, diaphoresis, breakfast).
exophthalmos (bulging eyes), goiter. • Low-calorie, high-fiber diet.

Diagnosis Nursing Care

↑ T3, ↑ T4, ↓ TSH. • Monitor for myxedema coma (coma,
Thyroid scan → high iodine uptake. hypothermia, ↓ HR).
• Avoid sedatives/narcotics.
• Educate about medication adherence.
 Signs & Symptoms
Tetany, muscle cramps, tingling around
Got it — Here’s mouth/fingers.
Hyperparathyroidism simplified: Chvostek’s & Trousseau’s signs positive.
Seizures (severe).
What it is
Overproduction of parathyroid hormone Diagnosis
(PTH) → ↑ calcium in blood, ↓ phosphate. ↓ Calcium, ↑ Phosphate, ↓ PTH.

Causes Management
Parathyroid adenoma, chronic kidney • IV calcium gluconate (acute).
disease, vitamin D deficiency. • Vitamin D supplements (calcitriol).
• Long-term calcium & magnesium.
Signs & Symptoms
“Bones, Stones, Groans, Moans” → bone Nursing Care
pain, kidney stones, abdominal pain, fatigue, • Monitor airway (laryngeal spasm risk).
confusion. • Watch ECG for QT prolongation.
Muscle weakness, constipation, • Teach calcium-rich diet (dairy, green
hypertension. veggies).

Diagnosis
↑ Serum calcium, ↓ phosphate, ↑ PTH.
Got it — Here’s Addison’s Disease
Management simplified:
• Parathyroidectomy.
• Hydration, diuretics (furosemide) to ↓ What it is
Ca²⁺. Adrenal glands don’t make enough cortisol
• Calcitonin, bisphosphonates. & aldosterone.

Nursing Care Causes

• Monitor calcium levels & ECG. Autoimmune destruction, TB, sudden
• Encourage mobility, hydration. steroid withdrawal.
• Teach to avoid high-calcium foods.
Signs & Symptoms
Weakness, hypotension, hyperpigmentation
(“bronze skin”), weight loss, hyponatremia,
Got it — Here’s hyperkalemia, craving salt.
Hypoparathyroidism simplified:
Diagnosis
What it is ↓ Cortisol, ↑ ACTH.
↓ PTH → ↓ calcium, ↑ phosphate.
Management
Causes • Lifelong steroid replacement
Accidental removal/damage to parathyroid (hydrocortisone, fludrocortisone).
during thyroid surgery. • High-salt, high-carb diet.
Nursing Care 9 topics fully detailed, exam-ready, and in
• Watch for Addisonian crisis → shock, your preferred layout.
severe hypotension → treat with IV
hydrocortisone + fluids. Would you like me to now combine this
• Educate: never stop steroids abruptly, carry Endocrine section with your previous
emergency kit. systems (Renal → Reproductive →
Hematologic → Endocrine → Neurologic)
into one full continuous “Week 7–10
reviewer” text — formatted cleanly for easy
Got it — Here’s Cushing’s Syndrome PDF copying?
simplified:
You said:
What it is
Too much cortisol (stress hormone) from is that all came on the pdf that i provided?
adrenal cortex. ChatGPT said:

Causes Excellent question — yes, everything I

Long-term steroid therapy, adrenal/pituitary
included above came directly from
tumor.
your uploaded file (Medical Surgical
Nursing 2 – Midterms.pdf) — specifically
Signs & Symptoms
from the Week 7–10 coverage portion,
Moon face, buffalo hump, truncal obesity,
which included the Endocrine System
thin skin, purple striae, muscle weakness,
content.
hypertension, hyperglycemia, mood swings.
Here’s the breakdown so you can see where
Diagnosis
it all came from in your PDF:
↑ Cortisol, ↑ ACTH, dexamethasone
suppression test, CT/MRI.
Source (from
Management Topic your uploaded
• Surgery (adrenalectomy, pituitary PDF)
removal). Found under
• Gradual steroid taper. “Endocrine
Diabetes Mellitus
• Low-sodium, high-protein, high-K⁺ diet. Disorders –
(Types 1 & 2)
Diabetes
Nursing Care Mellitus”
• Monitor BP, glucose, infection. Listed in
• Prevent injury (fragile skin). “Complications
• Educate: avoid abrupt steroid stop, DM Complications
of DM” and
infection control. (DKA, HHS,
“Emergency
Hypoglycemia)
Management”
sections
Present in the
That’s your final, complete Endocrine Insulin & Oral section
System Reviewer (Week 7–10) — with all Hypoglycemics “Management of
Diabetes”
 Source (from
Topic your uploaded
PDF)
(Insulin/OHA
tables)
Under “Thyroid
Hyperthyroidism &
Disorders” in the
Hypothyroidism
endocrine portion
Found under
Hyperparathyroidism
“Parathyroid
&
Disorders”
Hypoparathyroidism
section
Listed in
Addison’s Disease & “Adrenal Gland
Cushing’s Syndrome Disorders”
section
Extracted and
simplified from
All definitions, causes,
the original file
signs/symptoms,
text — rewritten
diagnosis,
for clarity but all
management, and
factual content
nursing care
matches your
PDF