What should be done before exercise to manage bladder and bowel in SCI patients?

What should be done before exercise to manage bladder and bowel in SCI patients?

• A. Eat a large meal
• B. Empty bowels and bladder
• C. Take a laxative
• D. Hydrate with caffeine

Answer: (B)

Preparing for exercise by emptying the bladder and bowels is important for someone with spinal cord injury because it reduces the risk of incontinence during activity and helps prevent autonomic instability, such as dangerous blood pressure spikes, especially in higher-level injuries. When the bladder and rectum are clear, there’s less sensory stress during movement, making the workout more comfortable, safer, and easier to perform without interruptions for urgent bathroom needs. The other options would introduce problems—eating a large meal can cause cramping and nausea during activity, a laxative could trigger an unexpected bowel movement mid-exercise, and caffeine-containing hydration can increase urination and potentially provoke blood pressure changes.

Preparing for exercise by emptying the bladder and bowels is important for someone with spinal cord injury because it reduces the risk of incontinence during activity and helps prevent autonomic instability, such as dangerous blood pressure spikes, especially in higher-level injuries. When the bladder and rectum are clear, there’s less sensory stress during movement, making the workout more comfortable, safer, and easier to perform without interruptions for urgent bathroom needs. The other options would introduce problems—eating a large meal can cause cramping and nausea during activity, a laxative could trigger an unexpected bowel movement mid-exercise, and caffeine-containing hydration can increase urination and potentially provoke blood pressure changes.