EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE

PRACTICE GUIDELINES EVIDENCE IMPLEMENTATION

 Diagnosis  Thyroid function tests,  Follow established

including measurement guidelines, such as those
of serum levels of from the American Thyroid
thyroid-stimulating Association or the Endocrine
hormone (TSH), free Society, for interpreting
thyroxine (FT4), and thyroid function tests and
free triiodothyronine diagnosing hyperthyroidism.
(FT3), are crucial for
diagnosing
hyperthyroidism.

 Regular monitoring of  Regular testing of  Schedule follow-up

thyroid function.
thyroid function (TSH,
Free T4) ensures
optimal dosing and
early detection of over-
or undermedication.
appointments to monitor
thyroid function,
adjusting medication as
necessary.

 Treatment options  Antithyroid drugs  Consider patient

(ATDs), radioactive
iodine therapy, and
surgery are common
treatment options. The
choice depends on
factors such as the
cause of
hyperthyroidism,
patient preference, and
comorbidities.
preferences, the
underlying cause of
hyperthyroidism, and
potential side effects
when deciding on the
most appropriate
treatment. Engage in
shared decision-making
with the patient.

 Antithyroid drugs  Methimazole and  Monitor patients for

propylthiouracil are
common ATDs.
Evidence supports the
use of these drugs for
achieving euthyroidism.
adverse effects,
especially
agranulocytosis with
methimazole, and discuss
potential risks and
benefits with patients.
Regular follow-up is
crucial to adjust
medication doses as
needed.
 Radioactive Iodine Therapy
 Radioactive iodine is  Educate patients about
effective in reducing the procedure, potential
thyroid function. It is side effects, and the need
often considered a for long-term monitoring.
definitive treatment for Follow recommended
hyperthyroidism. guidelines for patient
selection and dose
calculation.

 Surgery (Thyroidectomy)  Thyroidectomy may be  Discuss the risks and

recommended in certain
cases, such as large
goiters or when other
treatments are
contraindicated.
benefits of surgery with
the patient. Ensure proper
preoperative and
postoperative care,
including thyroid
hormone replacement
therapy.

 Patient Education.  Educating patients  Provide clear, evidence-

about hyperthyroidism,
its management, and the
importance of
medication adherence
improves self-
management.
based information on the
condition, medications,
and lifestyle
modifications. Address
patient questions and
concerns.

 Regular Follow-up and  Regular monitoring of  Establish a structured

continuity of care.
thyroid function and
clinical status is
essential for assessing
treatment efficacy and
detecting complications.
follow-up schedule,
including thyroid
function tests and clinical
assessments. Adjust
treatment plans as needed
based on monitoring
results.