Page 1378 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

hormone (ACTH), or antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
may be involved.

3. Assessment

a. Mild to moderate obesity (GH, TSH)
b. Reduced cardiac output (GH, ADH)
c. Infertility, sexual dysfunction
(gonadotropins, ACTH)
d. Fatigue, low blood pressure (TSH,
ADH, ACTH, GH)
e. Tumors of the pituitary also may cause
headaches and visual defects (the
pituitary is located near the optic
nerve).

4. Interventions

a. Client may need hormone replacement
for the specific deficient hormones.
b. Provide emotional support to the client
and family.
c. Encourage the client and family to
express feelings related to disturbed
body image or sexual dysfunction.
d. Client education is needed regarding
the signs and symptoms of
hypofunction and hyperfunction
related to insufficient or excess
hormone replacement.
B. Hyperpituitarism (acromegaly)
1. Description: Hypersecretion of growth hormone by
the anterior pituitary gland in an adult; caused
primarily by pituitary tumors

2. Assessment

a. Large hands and feet
b. Thickening and protrusion of the jaw
c. Arthritic changes and joint pain,
impingement syndromes
d. Visual disturbances
e. Diaphoresis
f. Oily, rough skin
g. Organomegaly
h. Hypertension, atherosclerosis,
cardiomegaly, heart failure
i. Dysphagia
j. Deepening of the voice
k. Thickening of the tongue, narrowing of

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