As nurses, are we meeting the unique needs of the intact client?

Abstract

Purpose: Current routine circumcision rates declined indicating a procedure reduction and because of this, nurses will encounter more intact male patients. Best practices are needed to provide appropriate, safe nursing care. The research aim was to understand what American nurses presently know about intact care and if any knowledge deficits exist.Design and Methods: The research was conducted using a cross-sectional survey design. American nurses currently in practice were invited to participate in a survey distributed via social media groups for nursing professionals. No incentive was offered for participation. An author-developed instrument was used to assess knowledge levels regarding intact care. Analysis was performed using descriptive statistics as there was no intervention.Methods: American nurses currently in practice were invited to participate in a survey distributed via social media groups for nursing professionals. No incentive was offered for participation. An author-developed instrument was used to assess knowledge levels regarding intact care. Analysis was performed using descriptive statistics as there was no intervention.Results: A convenient sample of 345 nursing professionals participated indicating an intact care knowledge deficit across the lifespan. Fourteen percent of respondents did not indicate that replacing the foreskin back over the glans was necessary with adult genital hygiene for intact patients. In pediatrics, 41.7% answered yes to the item statement "Do you retract the foreskin of an infant male child for catheter placement." Practice Implications: The results indicate a knowledge deficit among American nurses regarding genital hygiene, particularly for pediatric patients. Practicing without knowledge of intact care that scientifically based can endanger the caring relationship between nurse and patient, resulting in physical harm and may open themselves and their health systems to legal liability.