Male Genitalia and Rectal System
Physiologically speaking, the male reproductive system’s sole job is to make and deposit sperm into the female reproductive system (Betts et al., 2022). Numerous structures within the male reproductive system support this function. Reproductive system assessment of a male patient can be a sensitive issue for many men. For this reason, male patients may neglect physical assessment (Thompson, 2018). Men are also less likely to see their healthcare provider as often, receive fewer check-ups, and participate in fewer preventative health promotion activities (Spar & Monoz, 2014). Assessing the male reproductive system includes the techniques of inspection and palpation, knowledge of the potential health concerns common to the male patient and expert skill in therapeutic communication and relationship building.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Review the basic anatomy and physiology of male genitalia
- Complete a comprehensive assessment of male genitalia
- Understand the normal findings of male genitalia assessment
- Review common male reproductive pathology
- Learn appropriate documentation of assessment findings
- Practice and apply critical thinking skills through applicable case study review
