Pharmacology for Nurses

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Diagnostic testing

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Pharmacology for Nurses

Definition

Diagnostic testing involves a variety of medical tests used to identify the presence and cause of a thyroid or parathyroid disorder. These tests are crucial for determining appropriate treatment options.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Common diagnostic tests for thyroid disorders include TSH, free T4, and free T3 blood tests.
  2. Parathyroid function is often assessed using serum calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels.
  3. Thyroid ultrasound can help visualize structural abnormalities in the thyroid gland.
  4. Radioactive iodine uptake test measures how well the thyroid absorbs iodine, helping diagnose hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
  5. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is used to evaluate thyroid nodules for cancer.

Review Questions

  • What blood tests are commonly used to diagnose thyroid disorders?
  • How is parathyroid function typically assessed?
  • What imaging technique can be employed to detect structural irregularities in the thyroid gland?
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