Endocrine for the AANP FNP exam
Diabetes alone produces 8 to 10 questions. Thyroid is repeatedly called out by AANP candidates. Master ADA 2026 sequencing and the TSH-first thyroid approach. This chapter has 17 topics, a video lecture, an audio lesson, clinical scenarios, exam pearls and a quiz.
What you will learn
- Sequence diabetes medications per ADA 2026
- Approach thyroid disorders TSH-first
- Recognize DKA vs HHS
- Identify red-flag adrenal disorders
Topics in this chapter
- Type 2 diabetesADA 2026 standards: diagnosis, A1c targets, drug class table, when to start insulin, complications screening.
- Type 1 diabetesType 1 diabetes basics, insulin regimens (basal-bolus, pump, CGM), DKA prevention, transitions of care.
- DKA and HHSDKA vs HHS distinction, diagnostic criteria, fluid and insulin protocol, complications including cerebral edema.
- Thyroid disordersHypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, thyroid storm, pregnancy thyroid disorders.
- Adrenal disordersAdrenal insufficiency, Cushing, primary aldosteronism, pheochromocytoma, congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
- Pituitary disordersPituitary adenoma types, hyperprolactinemia, acromegaly, hypopituitarism, diabetes insipidus.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)Rotterdam criteria, metabolic features, treatment goals, fertility considerations.
- OsteoporosisDEXA screening per USPSTF, FRAX score, bisphosphonates and other agents, vitamin D and calcium.
- Calcium and bone metabolismHypercalcemia workup, hyperparathyroidism (primary, secondary, tertiary), hypocalcemia, vitamin D deficiency.
- Hypoglycemia in non-diabeticsWhipple triad, fasting vs postprandial workup, common causes, factitious hypoglycemia.
- Obesity and weight managementObesity classification, screening, GLP-1 and dual agonist weight loss meds, bariatric surgery indications.
- Gestational diabetesGestational diabetes screening, diagnosis, treatment, postpartum follow-up, future risk counseling.
- Male hypogonadismHypogonadism diagnosis, testosterone replacement indications and risks, ED workup.
- Electrolyte disordersHyponatremia and hypernatremia workup, hyperkalemia management, hypokalemia replacement, magnesium and phosphate.
- Myxedema coma (severe decompensated hypothyroidism)Severe decompensated hypothyroidism: hypothermia, depressed mental status, hyponatremia, hypoventilation. A true endocrine emergency requiring IV levothyroxine plus stress-dose steroids.
- Thyroid cancer and the suspicious noduleDifferentiated, medullary, and anaplastic thyroid cancers; sonographic and clinical features that make a nodule suspicious; the role of TSH, ultrasound, and FNA in workup.
- Adrenal crisis (acute adrenal insufficiency)Acute adrenal insufficiency: shock unresponsive to fluids and pressors, hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia. Recognize precipitants and give immediate hydrocortisone without waiting for confirmation.
The full chapter is part of the membership. Open this chapter
Last updated November 4, 2026. Verify exam details against the official AANPCB Candidate Handbook before exam day.