Description

This 2-part medical nursing session will focus on how the endocrine systems in the body function and can malfunction, as well as what endocrine diseases our patients can suffer from, and why they manifest. The second part will specifically look at patients with hyper and hypoadrenocortical diseases, pathophysiology, testing, and how we nurse them.

Learning Objectives

• 1. Understand the anatomy and physiology of the endocrine system – describe the roles of major glands (pituitary, thyroid, adrenals, pancreas).
• 2. Understand what hormones are involved in maintaining homeostasis.
• 3. Recognise common endocrine disorders in veterinary patients –a brief overview of conditions associated with endocrine disease such as diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Addison’s disease, and Cushing’s syndrome.
• 4. Discuss diagnostic approaches for adrenocortical disease – explain the rationale for blood tests, urinalysis, imaging, and tests in confirming endocrine conditions.
• 5. Evaluate nursing care priorities for adrenocortical diseased patients – outline monitoring requirements, medication administration and client education strategies.