Urinary Incontinence and Retention · NCLEX Exam

A patient with long-standing diabetes reports a weak urinary stream and dribbling, yet hasn’t felt the urge in some time. What is the likely mechanism?

  1. Detrusor overactivity causing premature contractions
  2. Detrusor underactivity from diabetic autonomic neuropathy
  3. Stress incontinence from weak urethral sphincter support
  4. Functional incontinence from impaired patient mobility
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Detrusor underactivity from diabetic autonomic neuropathy

Autonomic neuropathy in diabetes can cause detrusor underactivity, leading to incomplete emptying and urinary retention or overflow incontinence.

Difficulty: Medium Question 17 of 20

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