Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) A Practice Exam

Anal laxity can lead to which of the following complications?

1. Increase in abdominal pressure

2. Rectal incontinence

3. Inflammation of the bladder

4. Risk of ovarian cysts

The correct answer is: Rectal incontinence

Anal laxity refers to the decreased tone and strength in the anal sphincter muscles, which are crucial for maintaining control over bowel movements. When there is anal laxity, it can lead to rectal incontinence, which is the inability to control bowel movements, resulting in involuntary passage of feces. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, leading to physical and psychological distress. The relationship between anal laxity and rectal incontinence is well-established; the weakening of the anal sphincter can prevent the effective containment of stool, making it difficult for individuals to retain their bowel contents. This can occur after trauma, such as from childbirth, or can be due to other factors that affect the pelvic floor. The other options presented do not have a direct correlation with anal laxity. For instance, an increase in abdominal pressure does not specifically arise from anal laxity, nor does it directly cause rectal incontinence. Inflammation of the bladder is linked to issues such as urinary tract infections or bladder conditions, not anal laxity. Similarly, the risk of ovarian cysts is unrelated to anal function and rather pertains to reproductive health issues. Thus, the link between anal laxity and rectal incontinence is clear, confirming that