FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

Which symptom may indicate bladder dysfunction in a person with Cauda Equina Syndrome?

1. Frequent urination

2. Urinary retention

3. Inability to taste

4. Dry mouth

The correct answer is: Urinary retention

Bladder dysfunction in individuals with Cauda Equina Syndrome can manifest through urinary retention. This condition occurs when communication between the bladder and the nervous system is compromised due to the damage inflicted on the cauda equina, which is a bundle of spinal nerves at the lower end of the spinal cord. As a result, the bladder may lose its ability to contract effectively, leading to an inability to empty completely. This retention can cause discomfort and increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Frequent urination, on the other hand, is generally associated with overactive bladder conditions rather than retention and does not indicate the same type of dysfunction specific to Cauda Equina Syndrome. The options relating to taste and dry mouth are not relevant, as they pertain to different physiological systems and are not indicative of bladder function or dysfunction. Overall, urinary retention is a hallmark symptom that signifies a potential issue in bladder control when assessing patients with Cauda Equina Syndrome.