Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

During which stage of sleep do parasomnias such as sleepwalking and enuresis typically occur?

1. Stage 1

2. Stage 2

3. Stage 3

4. Stage 4

The correct answer is: Stage 4

Parasomnias, which include behaviors like sleepwalking and enuresis (bedwetting), primarily occur during the deeper stages of non-REM sleep, particularly during slow-wave sleep known as stages 3 and 4 of sleep. These stages are characterized by the presence of delta waves and are crucial for restorative processes in the body. Stage 4 is recognized as a very deep sleep stage where the body is least responsive to external stimuli. During this phase, the somatic control that usually inhibits such behaviors is at its lowest. As a result, individuals may engage in sleepwalking or experience enuresis more readily during this state, as the brain is less effectively able to regulate waking behaviors. While sleepwalking can also occur in stage 3, the more profound disinhibition and physiological factors make stage 4 a key period for such parasomnias to manifest. The presence of deep sleep is crucial for consolidating memories and restoring physical health, but it is also a time when these abnormal behaviors can occur if disrupted.