Testicular self-examination: teaching, learning and practice by nurses

Testicular cancer is increasing in incidence, is now the commonest solid tumour in men aged 20-34 years and has a better prognosis when detected and treated early. Testicular self-examination is an effective self-screening procedure that is easily taught, learnt and practised. The aim of this study was to discover the extent of the teaching, learning and practice of this procedure by nurses. The data were collected by means of a questionnaire which was sent out to 60 nurses of various grades in one Sussex hospital. Nurses' knowledge of testicular self-examination was found to be better amongst men than women, although over a half of female nurses did know of it. Their knowledge of groups at high risk of testicular cancer was incomplete. Whilst two-thirds of nurses saw the teaching of testicular self-examination as part of their role as health educators, very few had in fact taught it. It appeared that most male nurses do self-examine on a regular basis. The results indicate that nurses need to accept their responsibilities as health educators. Testicular self-examination should become an integral part of nurse training. Facilities and materials should be made available to assist nurses in disseminating such information.