Question

A nurse is teaching a young adult client how to perform testicular self-examination. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

a. Compare both testicles by examining them simultaneously.
b. Roll each testicle between the thumb and fingers.
c. Perform testicular self-examination before a warm bath or shower.
d. Perform self-examination of the testicles every 2 weeks.

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the client to perform the testicular self-examination monthly after a warm bath or shower, to examine each testicle separately by rolling it between the thumb and fingers, and to watch for any changes as an early detection measure for testicular cancer.

Step-by-step explanation:

Instructions for Testicular Self-Examination

To properly perform a testicular self-examination, the nurse should instruct the young adult client to:

• Perform the examination after a warm bath or shower when the scrotum is relaxed.
• Examine each testicle separately, not simultaneously, to better feel for any lumps or changes.
• Roll each testicle between the thumb and fingers gently and thoroughly to examine the entire surface.
• Conduct the self-examination monthly to detect any changes early.

The purpose of performing a monthly self-exam of the testes is to detect any changes early, as testicular cancer has one of the highest cure rates when caught and treated in early stages.

Avoiding injury during contact sports by wearing a protective cup also helps maintain reproductive system health. In females, monthly self-exams of the breasts are similarly advised for early detection of potential breast cancer.