Question

The patient has a thoracic spinal cord lesion and incontinence that occurs equally during the day and night. What type of incontinence is this patient experiencing?

a. Reflex incontinence
b. Overflow incontinence
c. Functional incontinence
d. Incontinence after trauma

Answer 1

The patient with thoracic spinal cord lesion is likely experiencing reflex incontinence, where bladder control is lost due to damage above the sacral level of the spine resulting in involuntary urine leakage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient with a thoracic spinal cord lesion who is experiencing urinary incontinence that occurs equally during the day and night is likely suffering from either reflex incontinence or incontinence after trauma. Given the facts presented, it is more likely to be reflex incontinence, as it is associated with spinal cord injuries at levels above the sacral cord. Reflex incontinence occurs when the normal micturition control by the brain is disrupted, and the bladder empties in response to a certain level of fullness without conscious control. The patient may benefit from scheduled catheterization to manage their bladder effectively.