A nurse is teaching the parents of a newborn how to care for their child's uncircumcised penis.Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationaleForcefully retracting the foreskin risks causing paraphimosis, where retracted foreskin becomes trapped. The foreskin should only be retracted gently in older children, not in newborns, to avoid injury.Choice B rationaleUsing a cotton swab can cause irritation or microabrasions on the delicate foreskin tissue. Gentle washing with soap and water is sufficient for maintaining hygiene.Choice C rationalePetroleum jelly is not required for foreskin care as it does not aid in cleanliness or healing. It is primarily used for circumcision care, not uncircumcised penis hygiene.Choice D rationaleWashing with soap and water once daily maintains hygiene without irritating or damaging the sensitive penile tissue. This method is simple and effective for preventing infections.