CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyHard
A nurse aide is performing perineal care for an uncircumcised male resident. Which action is essential to ensure proper hygiene and prevent infection?
- ARetract the foreskin, clean, and then return it to its natural position.
- BUse a new washcloth for each stroke during cleaning.
- CClean the penis from the base to the tip.
- DApply a generous amount of lotion to the perineal area after cleaning.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Retract the foreskin, clean, and then return it to its natural position.
For an uncircumcised male, retracting the foreskin allows for thorough cleaning of the glans penis, where secretions and bacteria can accumulate. It is critical to return the foreskin to its natural position immediately after cleaning to prevent paraphimosis, a painful and serious condition where the retracted foreskin cannot be returned, potentially cutting off circulation.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While using a new section of the washcloth for each stroke is good practice, using an entirely new washcloth for each stroke is excessive and not the most critical step for this specific scenario.
- C. Cleaning from tip to base is the correct direction to prevent introducing bacteria into the urethra, but this option doesn't address the foreskin.
- D. Applying lotion is generally not part of routine perineal care for males and could potentially irritate the area or trap moisture, promoting bacterial growth.
Perineal Care: Uncircumcised Male
Specific steps for providing perineal care to an uncircumcised male resident to ensure cleanliness and prevent complications.
- Always retract the foreskin to clean the glans.
- Clean from tip to base, using a clean part of the washcloth for each stroke.
- ALWAYS return the foreskin to its natural position immediately after cleaning.
- Rinse and pat dry thoroughly.
Memory trick: Retract, clean, return; a crucial lesson to learn.