Page 392 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

examination.
c. Genitalia are manipulated gently to
avoid causing erection or discomfort.
d. Sexual maturity is assessed by noting
the size and shape of the penis and
testes, the color and texture of the
scrotal skin, and the character and
distribution of pubic hair.
e. The penis is checked for the presence of
lesions or discharge; a culture is
obtained if a discharge is present.
f. The scrotum is inspected for size, shape,
and symmetry (normally the left
testicle hangs lower than the right) and
is palpated for the presence of lumps.
g. Inguinal ring and canal: inspection
(asking the client to cough or bear
down) and palpation are performed to
assess for the presence of a hernia.

3. Client teaching

a. Stress the importance of personal
hygiene.
b. Teach the client how to perform
testicular self-examination (TSE); a day
of the month is selected and the exam
is performed on the same day each
month after a shower or bath when the
hands are warm and soapy and the
scrotum is warm. (Refer to Chapter 44
for information on performing TSE.)
c. Explain the signs of sexually
transmitted infections.
d. Educate the client on measures to
prevent sexually transmitted
infections.
e. Inform the client with a sexually
transmitted infection that he must
inform his sexual partner(s) of the
need for an examination.
N. Rectum and anus

1. Subjective data: Usual bowel pattern; any

change in bowel habits; rectal pain, bleeding from the
rectum, or black or tarry stools; dietary habits;
problems with urination; previous screening for
colorectal cancer; previous screening for prostate

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