Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What characterizes autonomic neuropathy?

1. Damage to sensory perception

2. Damage to nerves that control sweat glands

3. Complete inability to move

4. Inflammation of nerve endings

The correct answer is: Damage to nerves that control sweat glands

Autonomic neuropathy is characterized primarily by damage to the autonomic nerves, which are responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions, including the activity of sweat glands. This damage can interfere with normal sweating and temperature regulation, leading to symptoms such as excessive sweating or the inability to sweat. When autonomic nerves that control sweat glands are affected, patients may experience changes in skin moisture levels, which can have various implications for skin integrity and overall health. The other options do not fit the definition of autonomic neuropathy. Damage to sensory perception is more closely related to sensory neuropathy, which involves the nerves that carry sensory information. A complete inability to move points toward motor neuropathy, where motor nerves are impaired. Inflammation of nerve endings can occur in various neuropathic conditions, but it does not specifically characterize autonomic neuropathy.