and is
characterized by 1 or more of the
signs and symptoms listed in Table 1.
Thyroid storm, a very rare complication
of hyperthyroidism, can be fatal if untreated. It is often precipitated
by a stressful event or trauma. Critical
care nurses must recognize the
signs and symptoms of thyroid storm
to properly manage this condition
and prevent further complications.2
Thyroid diseases are common in
women of childbearing age. In many
cases, these diseases are first recognized
during pregnancy or in the
postpartum period. Some of the
normal changes of pregnancy can be
confused with signs and symptoms
of various diseases, just as some signs
and symptoms of a disease can be
erroneously blamed on pregnancy.