When teaching the patient about self-examination of the male genitalia, the nurse would include which instructions in the teaching plan?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Genital self-examination begins with inspection to observe abnormalities like swelling or lesions, followed by palpation to assess texture or masses. Starting with palpation may miss visual cues, making this sequence incorrect for effective self-examination. Choice B reason: Testicular self-examination should be performed monthly, not yearly, to detect early changes like lumps, which could indicate testicular cancer. Annual exams are insufficient for timely detection, making this frequency incorrect for the teaching plan. Choice C reason: Performing testicular self-examination while bathing is ideal, as warm water relaxes the scrotum, making it easier to palpate for abnormalities. This enhances detection of masses or irregularities, making it a key instruction for effective self-examination. Choice D reason: Testicular self-examination is recommended for all adult males, not just those with prior cryptorchidism, which increases cancer risk. Restricting it to this group excludes others who could benefit from early detection, making this an incorrect limitation.