A 32-Year-Old Man Is Evaluated for Bowel Dysfunction

question 8

Multiple Choice

A 32-year-old man is evaluated for bowel dysfunction.  The patient suffered multiple injuries during a motor vehicle collision 6 months ago.  He was hospitalized for several weeks and is currently undergoing treatment with physical therapy.  Since the injury, the patient has developed severe constipation with occasional fecal incontinence.  Evaluation reveals a large amount of stool in the distal colon due to impaired motor function.  Anal sphincter tone is decreased.  Injury to which of the following structures best explains this patient's bowel dysfunction?

• A)Cervical spinal cord
• B)Pudendal nerve
• C)Sacral spinal cord
• D)Thoracic spinal cord
• E)Vagus nerve nucleus

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Definitions:

Double-Digit Inflation

A period of economic condition where the rate of inflation reaches or exceeds 10%, significantly eroding purchasing power.

Unemployment Rate

The ratio of the labor force characterized by lack of employment but ongoing job search efforts.

Great Depression

A severe worldwide economic downturn in the 1930s, marked by mass unemployment, deflation, and a significant decline in economic activity.

1970s

The 1970s is a decade known for significant economic, political, and cultural shifts, including the energy crisis, inflation, and changes in global politics.