NCLEX RN Exam Prep Related

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When cleansing the genital area during perineal care, the nurse should _____________.

  • A. cleanse the penis with a circular motion starting from the base and moving toward the tip.
  • B. replace the foreskin after it has been pushed back to cleanse an uncircumcised penis.
  • C. cleanse the rectal area first and then clean the patient's genital area.
  • D. use the same area on the washcloth for each washing and rinsing stroke for a female resident.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: During perineal care, when cleansing the genital area of an uncircumcised male patient, it is crucial to retract the foreskin to clean the area underneath. This helps in the removal of smegma, a substance that can accumulate and lead to bacterial growth and infection if not cleaned properly. The foreskin should then be replaced back to its original position after cleaning to ensure proper hygiene and prevent any potential complications. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the specific care required for an uncircumcised penis, which involves retracting and replacing the foreskin.