What information should the nurse provide to a 53-year-old male on prevention and early detection of prostate cancer?

Question

A) Have a digital rectal examination and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test done yearly.
B) Have a transrectal ultrasound every 5 years.
C) Perform monthly testicular self-examinations, especially after age 50.
D) Have a complete blood count (CBC) yearly (including blood urea nitrogen [BUN] and creatinine assessment).

Answer 1

Ans: A
Feedback: The incidence of prostate cancer increases after age 50. The digital rectal examination, which identifies enlargement or irregularity of the prostate, and the PSA test, a tumor marker for prostate cancer, are effective diagnostic measures that should be done yearly. Testicular self-examinations won't identify changes in the prostate gland due to its location in the body. A transrectal ultrasound and CBC with BUN and creatinine assessment are usually done after diagnosis to identify the extent of disease and potential metastases.