Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

What is anosognosia?

1. A form of emotional distress

2. A type of physical therapy

3. A neglect where a patient fails to recognize paralysis

4. A cognitive behavioral issue

The correct answer is: A neglect where a patient fails to recognize paralysis

Anosognosia refers specifically to the condition in which a person is unaware of their own disability or illness, particularly in cases of neurological impairments such as paralysis. For example, a patient with a stroke affecting one side of their body may not acknowledge or recognize that they have lost the ability to move that side. This lack of awareness can significantly impact rehabilitation and treatment plans, as the individual may not participate fully in their recovery process because they do not acknowledge the impairment. The other choices, while they touch on related topics, do not accurately define anosognosia. Emotional distress can occur after someone recognizes their condition, but it doesn't pertain to the lack of awareness that characterizes anosognosia. Physical therapy refers to the treatment aimed at improving physical function, which is not a definition of anosognosia. Cognitive behavioral issues typically involve challenges related to thought processes and behaviors, and while these can be a part of a broader cognitive impairment, they do not specifically capture the essence of anosognosia. Therefore, recognizing anosognosia is crucial for effective nursing care, as understanding a patient's level of awareness can help tailor interventions to facilitate their rehabilitation.