North Carolina CNA Written Practice Exam

The understanding of incontinence is essential in a healthcare setting. When a resident is described as incontinent, it means they are unable to control their bowel or bladder functions. This condition can vary in severity, meaning that some individuals may experience complete loss of control, while others may have intermittent episodes. Importantly, incontinence can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making it necessary for caregivers to provide appropriate support and intervention.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the meaning of incontinence. Those who can control their bowel movements, for example, are not considered incontinent. Frequent urination can be a symptom of various health issues, but it does not inherently indicate a lack of control. Difficulty walking is entirely unrelated to bowel or bladder control and is focused on mobility rather than incontinence. Understanding these distinctions helps provide better care for individuals who may be dealing with incontinence issues.