Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

Which of the following expressed conditions is NOT a cause for impaired expressions of sexuality in stroke patients?

1. Communication deficits

2. A high incidence of right side neglect

3. Depression

4. Apraxia

The correct answer is: A high incidence of right side neglect

Impaired expressions of sexuality in stroke patients can result from a variety of factors that affect their physical and cognitive abilities. In this context, the correct answer highlights the aspect that is not primarily recognized as a direct contributor to the issue at hand. Communication deficits directly impact a person's ability to express their sexuality, as effective communication is essential for intimate relationships and sexual expression. Depression can also severely hamper one's interest in and ability to engage in sexual activities, leading to a diminished quality of life. Similarly, apraxia, which involves difficulty in planning and executing skilled movements, can impair the performance of sexual activities or expressing oneself physically during intimacy. On the other hand, a high incidence of right side neglect primarily relates to the attentional aspect rather than a direct impairment of sexual expression. A patient with right side neglect may be unaware of stimuli or actions occurring on the left side of their body, affecting their perception and interaction with their environment. However, this condition does not necessarily translate into impaired expressions of sexuality in the same way that communication deficits, depression, or apraxia would. Thus, the recognition of how neglect impacts sexual function is less direct and pronounced compared to the other listed conditions.