Understanding Medical-Surgical Nursing: Endocrine System

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the endocrine system as outlined in the lecture notes.

Hypothalamus

A region of the brain that secretes hormones stimulating the pituitary gland.

Negative Feedback

A process where a change in a physiological variable triggers a response that counteracts the initial change.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Hormone that helps regulate water retention in the body by preventing excessive urine production.

Growth Hormone (Somatotropin)

Hormone that regulates growth and metabolism in the body, secreted by the pituitary gland.

Thyroid Gland

An endocrine gland that produces hormones T3 and T4, which regulate metabolism, growth, and development.

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

Hormone produced by the parathyroid glands that increases blood calcium levels.

Adrenal Glands

Glands that produce hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone, involved in stress response and metabolism.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that lowers blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake of glucose.

Glucagon

A hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood sugar levels by promoting the breakdown of glycogen.

Exophthalmos

Abnormal protrusion of the eyeball, often associated with hyperthyroidism.