The mother of a 12-month-old uncircumcised male infant reports that the child seems to have pain associated with voiding. A physical examination reveals a tight, pinpoint opening of the foreskin, which thickened and inflamed. What will the primary care pediatric nurse practitioner do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The infant may be experiencing symptoms of balanitis or balanoposthitis, inflammation of the penis or inflammation of the penis and foreskin, respectively. In infants, these conditions may be caused by poor hygiene, but can also indicate an underlying anatomical issue. Attempting to retract the foreskin in this case may cause further injury or pain to the infant, so this option should be avoided. Treatment with corticosteroid cream can be appropriate for some cases of balanitis or balanoposthitis, but referral to a pediatric urologist is indicated when there is significant or recurrent inflammation, especially if the infant is having difficulty urinating, as in this case. The pediatric urologist can assess for underlying anatomical abnormalities, provide guidance on whether and when to try retracting the foreskin, and discuss options for medical or surgical management.

The Mother of a 12-Month-Old Uncircumcised Male Infant Reports That