A nurse in a health clinic is caring for a 21-year-old whose last physical exam was in high school. Which health screening should the nurse expect the provider to perform?

A nurse in a health clinic is caring for a 21-year-old whose last physical exam was in high school. Which health screening should the nurse expect the provider to perform?

• A. Testicular examination
• B. Blood glucose
• C. Fecal occult blood
• D. Prostate-specific antigen

Answer: (A)

A young adult male routine exam should include a focused look at testicular health because the risk of testicular cancer is highest in ages 15 to 35, making a testicular examination an appropriate part of the physical assessment. The clinician gently palpates each testicle and the surrounding structures to check for any lumps, changes in size or texture, tenderness, or unusual masses. Early detection is easier when such findings are identified during a regular exam, and patients can be educated on self-awareness and when to seek care for new symptoms. The other screenings aren’t typically indicated at this age during a routine visit. Blood glucose screening is not standard for a healthy 21-year-old unless there are risk factors (like obesity, family history, or symptoms). Fecal occult blood testing is used for colorectal cancer screening starting later in adulthood, not for someone in their early 20s. Prostate-specific antigen screening is for prostate cancer risk and is not recommended for young men and isn’t part of routine screening at this age.

A young adult male routine exam should include a focused look at testicular health because the risk of testicular cancer is highest in ages 15 to 35, making a testicular examination an appropriate part of the physical assessment. The clinician gently palpates each testicle and the surrounding structures to check for any lumps, changes in size or texture, tenderness, or unusual masses. Early detection is easier when such findings are identified during a regular exam, and patients can be educated on self-awareness and when to seek care for new symptoms.

The other screenings aren’t typically indicated at this age during a routine visit. Blood glucose screening is not standard for a healthy 21-year-old unless there are risk factors (like obesity, family history, or symptoms). Fecal occult blood testing is used for colorectal cancer screening starting later in adulthood, not for someone in their early 20s. Prostate-specific antigen screening is for prostate cancer risk and is not recommended for young men and isn’t part of routine screening at this age.