Abstract

The endocrine system maintains a delicate balance of physiologic processes including growth and sexual maturation, energy production and utilization, fluid and electrolyte balance, and circulatory function. Although endocrine regulation of growth and sexual maturation is a significant issue in general pediatrics, disorders of energy production and utilization, fluid and electrolyte balance, and circulatory function are the endocrine causes of critical illness in children. Care of the child with critical endocrine disease requires an understanding of endocrine pathophysiology, keen history taking and assessment skills, and knowledge of the pharmacology of synthetic hormone treatment. This article will provide an overview of common endocrine problems encountered in critically ill children with attention to endocrine problems that are unique to pediatrics and that may pose diagnostic and treatment dilemmas for healthcare providers without experience or education in pediatric critical care.

Links

Publisher Full Text

Authors

Trimarchi T

Institution

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the School of Nursing, The University of Pennsylvania, 19104, USA. trimarchi@email.chop.edu

Source

AACN clinical issues 17:1 pg 66-78

MeSH

Adrenal Insufficiency
Aldosterone
Atrial Natriuretic Factor
Catecholamines
Child
Critical Care
Critical Illness
Diabetes Insipidus
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Endocrine System Diseases
Glucagon
Humans
Hydrocortisone
Hypoglycemia
Hypothyroidism
Inappropriate ADH Syndrome
Insulin
Neurosecretory Systems
Nurse's Role
Nursing Assessment
Pediatric Nursing
Pediatrics
Thyroid Hormones
Vasopressins

Pub Type(s)

Journal Article
Review

Language

eng

PubMed ID

16462411