Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

Functional incontinence is most often caused by which factor?

1. Upper motor neuron damage

2. Lower motor neuron damage

3. Peripheral nerve injury or disease

4. Difficulty accessing toileting facilities due to mobility or environmental problems

The correct answer is: Difficulty accessing toileting facilities due to mobility or environmental problems

Functional incontinence primarily arises when a person experiences difficulty accessing toileting facilities due to mobility limitations or environmental barriers. This type of incontinence is not because of the physical control of the bladder but rather due to challenges that prevent an individual from reaching a bathroom in time. Factors such as impaired mobility, cognitive challenges, or structural obstacles in the environment, such as long distances to restrooms or inadequate facilities, significantly contribute to this condition. In contrast, the other factors listed relate to different types of incontinence. Upper motor neuron damage generally leads to neurogenic bladder conditions, which are more related to involuntary bladder contractions. Lower motor neuron damage can affect the ability to empty the bladder but does not typically result in functional incontinence per se. Similarly, peripheral nerve injuries or diseases may impact bladder control but are more associated with direct neurological issues than with accessibility challenges. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the significance of environmental and mobility factors in the context of functional incontinence, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues in a care plan for affected individuals.