Pheochromocytoma NCLEX Review
It is essential to include NCLEX review for pheochromocytoma and have a thorough understanding of how to provide nursing care. This NCLEX review will include signs and symptoms of pheochromocytoma, diagnostic findings of pheochromocytoma, treatment of pheochromocytoma, and the nursing interventions for pheochromocytoma.
- Rare disorder of the adrenal medulla (of the kidneys)
- A tumor that secretes too much catecholamines
Why does pheochromocytoma cause hypertension?
- Increased in catecholamines
Increased amounts of catecholamines produce vasoconstriction, which leads to hypertension.
Signs and Symptoms of Pheochromocytoma
- Hypertension, palpitation, tachycardia, hyperglycemia, diaphoresis, nervousness, and headache
Diagnostic findings of Pheochromocytoma
- MRI
- CT
- Serum assay of catecholamine (Expected findings: Increased levels)
- Increase in urinary excretion of catecholamine
Treatment of Pheochromocytoma
- Antihypertensive medications (Patient has hypertension)
- Antidysrhythmic medications (Patient has arrhythmia)
- Potassium replacement (Patient is excreting too much urine and losing potassium)
- Removal of the tumor (Adrenalectomy)
Pheochromocytoma Nursing Interventions
- Decrease blood pressure
- Maintain a calm environment
- Assess vital signs
- Prioritize the blood pressure after adrenalectomy
- Assess for hypoglycemia
- Monitor renal perfusion
- Monitor urinary output
- Assess for adrenal insufficiency
Goals After an Adrenalectomy
- Lifelong replacement of adrenal hormones
- Ongoing medical care
Fun Way to Remember Pheochromocytoma
Pheo has too many cats that pees too much!
Pheochromocytoma has an increase in catecholamines that can cause excessive peeing.
