Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes autonomic neuropathy?

1. Damage to blood flow control

2. Damage to motor function

3. Damage to emotional response

4. Damage to sensation

The correct answer is: Damage to blood flow control

Autonomic neuropathy refers to a type of nerve damage that specifically affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and blood flow. When the autonomic nerves are damaged, there can be significant impairment in the body's ability to regulate blood flow. This can lead to symptoms such as orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up), abnormal heart rates, and issues with temperature regulation. While the other options address different aspects of nerve function, they do not specifically pertain to the unique characteristics of autonomic neuropathy. Damage to motor function primarily relates to the somatic nervous system, which is responsible for voluntary muscle movements. Damage to emotional response may involve other pathways, like those affecting mood and cognition. Damage to sensation refers to cases where the sensory nerves are impaired, affecting pain, touch, and temperature perception. However, none of these options capture the core definition of autonomic neuropathy, which is fundamentally tied to the control of involuntary physiological functions, particularly blood flow regulation.