Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which condition can contribute to urinary incontinence?

1. Diabetes

2. Enlarged prostate

3. Menopause

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Urinary incontinence can be influenced by several underlying conditions, each contributing in its own way. Diabetes is known to affect the nerves that control bladder function, leading to conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, which can contribute to both urgency and incontinence. This condition often results in an inability to sense a full bladder or to respond appropriately during the need to urinate. An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is common in older men and can obstruct the urethra, leading to urinary retention and overflow incontinence. As the prostate enlarges, it may compress the bladder, causing increased urinary urgency and frequency, contributing further to incontinence issues. Menopause also plays a significant role, particularly in women. Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to decreased estrogen levels, which are crucial for maintaining the health of the tissues in the urinary tract. This can lead to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and support structures, resulting in stress incontinence as well as increased overactive bladder symptoms. Given that each of these conditions — diabetes, enlarged prostate, and menopause — can independently contribute to urinary incontinence, the most comprehensive answer reflects that all of these factors can contribute to this common issue. Thus, selecting all of the