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1. Define important words in this chapter
benign prostatic hypertrophy
a disorder that can occur in men as they age, in which the
prostate becomes enlarged and causes problems with urination
and/or emptying the bladder.
cervical cancer
a form of female reproductive cancer that begins in the cervix;
can occur at any age and has few symptoms.
chlamydia
a sexually-transmitted infection caused by bacteria.
endometrial cancer
a form of female reproductive cancer that begins in the uterus;
symptoms include vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain.
17
The Reproductive System
1. Define important words in this chapter
genital herpes
a sexually-transmitted, incurable infection caused by herpes
simplex viruses type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2).
genital HPV infection
a sexually-transmitted infection caused by human
papillomavirus.
glands
structures in the body that produce substances.
gonads
the male and female sexual reproductive glands.
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The Reproductive System
1. Define important words in this chapter
gonorrhea
a sexually-transmitted infection caused by bacteria.
hormones
chemical substances produced by the body that control
numerous body functions.
impotence
the inability to have or maintain a penile erection.
menopause
the end of menstruation.
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The Reproductive System
1. Define important words in this chapter
menstruation
the shedding of the lining of the uterus that occurs
approximately every 28 days; also known as the menstrual
cycle or period.
ovarian cancer
a form of female reproductive cancer that begins in the
ovaries; can occur at any age and has few symptoms.
ovum
female sex cell or egg.
17
The Reproductive System
1. Define important words in this chapter
prostate cancer
a form of male reproductive cancer that begins in the prostate
gland; usually occurs in older men, and symptoms include
urinating during the night, a weak flow of urine, painful
urination, blood in urine, and problems with maintaining an
erection.
sexually-transmitted infections (STIs)
infections caused by sexual contact with infected people; signs
and symptoms are not always apparent.
sperm
male sex cells.
syphilis
a sexually-transmitted infection caused by bacteria.
17
The Reproductive System
1. Define important words in this chapter
testicular cancer
a form of male reproductive cancer that begins in the testes.
trichomoniasis
a sexually-transmitted infection caused by protozoa (singlecelled animals).
vaginal irrigation
a rinsing of the vagina in order to clean the vaginal tract or to
introduce medication into the vagina; also called a douche.
vaginitis
an inflammation of the vagina; symptoms include vaginal
discharge, itching and pain.
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2. Explain the structure and function of the reproductive system
Define the following terms:
sperm
male sex cells.
ovum
female sex cell or egg.
gonads
the male and female sexual reproductive glands.
glands
structures in the body that produce substances
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The Reproductive System
2. Explain the structure and function of the reproductive system
Define the following terms:
hormones
chemical substances produced by the body that control
numerous body functions.
menstruation
the shedding of the lining of the uterus that occurs
approximately every 28 days; also known as the menstrual
cycle or period.
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The Reproductive System
2. Explain the structure and function of the reproductive system
The reproductive system consists of the reproductive organs,
which are different in men and women. This system allows
human beings to reproduce, or create new human life.
Reproduction begins when male and female sex cells, sperm and
ovum, join. These sex cells are formed in the male and female
sexual reproductive glands, called the gonads.
Glands are structures in the body that produce substances.
Hormones are chemical substances produced by the body that
control numerous body functions, including the body’s ability to
reproduce.
17 The Reproductive System
Transparency 17-1: The Reproductive System
Male Reproductive System
17
The Reproductive System
2. Explain the structure and function of the reproductive system
Know these points about the reproductive system:
• Reproductive organs and hormones are different in males and
females.
• The reproductive system allows human beings to reproduce,
or create new human life.
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The Reproductive System
2. Explain the structure and function of the reproductive system
Function of the male reproductive system:
• Manufacture sperm and the male hormone, testosterone
Functions of the female reproductive system:
• Manufacture ova and female hormones, estrogen and
progesterone
• Provide environment for development of fetus
• Produce milk for the nourishment of a baby after birth
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3. Discuss changes in the reproductive system due to aging
Define the following term:
menopause
the end of menstruation.
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The Reproductive System
3. Discuss changes in the reproductive system due to aging
Normal changes of aging in the male reproductive system:
• Prostate gland enlarges.
• Number and capability of sperm decreases.
• Sexual response delays; it may take longer to achieve an
erection and to reach orgasm.
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3. Discuss changes in the reproductive system due to aging
Normal changes of aging in the female reproductive system:
• Menopause occurs when menstruation ends and ends the
ability to reproduce.
• Decrease in production of estrogen and progesterone leads to
a loss of calcium, causing brittle bones, and, potentially,
osteoporosis.
• Vaginal walls become drier and thinner.
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following term:
sexually-transmitted infections (STIs)
infections caused by sexual contact with infected people; signs
and symptoms are not always apparent.
17
The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about sexually-transmitted infections
(STIs):
• Transmitted through sexual contact, via needles, or through
childbirth or breastfeeding
• Transmission of some can be reduced or stopped by using
latex condoms.
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4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following term:
chlamydia
a sexually-transmitted infection caused by bacteria.
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about chlamydia:
• Cause: bacteria
• Symptoms: burning with urination, discharge from the penis
or vagina, swelling of the testes, painful intercourse,
abdominal and low back pain
• In many cases, no symptoms are apparent.
• May cause infertility or pelvic inflammatory disease
• Treatment: antibiotics
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following term:
genital herpes
a sexually-transmitted, incurable infection caused by herpes
simplex viruses type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2).
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about genital herpes:
• Cause: herpes simplex viruses type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2
(HSV-2)
• Cannot be cured
• Symptoms: itching, painful red blisters or open sores, burning
sensation during urination or intercourse, fever, headache,
muscle aches
• Infection can be spread even when sores are not present.
• Treatment: anti-viral medications to lessen frequency of
episodes
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following term:
genital HPV infection
a sexually-transmitted infection caused by human
papillomavirus.
17
The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about genital HPV infection:
• Cause: human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Infects genital area of both men and women
• May have no signs or symptoms
• Symptoms: abnormal pap test, genital warts
• Treatment: removal of warts, medication
• Vaccine licensed by FDA is available.
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following term:
gonorrhea
a sexually-transmitted infection caused by bacteria.
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about gonorrhea:
• Cause: bacteria
• Easier to detect in men than women
• Symptoms: painful or burning urination; white, yellow, or
green cloudy pus-like discharge from penis; swollen testes;
cloudy vaginal discharge; vaginal bleeding; rectal itching,
soreness; painful elimination of stool
• Treatment: antibiotics
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following term:
syphilis
a sexually-transmitted infection caused by bacteria.
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about syphilis:
• Cause: bacteria
• Easier to detect in men than women
• Symptoms: chancres, rashes, headache, fever, sore throat,
weight loss, muscle aches
• Infection can spread to the heart, brain and other vital
organs.
• Can be fatal
• Treatment: antibiotics
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following term:
trichomoniasis
a sexually-transmitted infection caused by protozoa (singlecelled animals).
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about trichomoniasis:
• Cause: protozoa
• May have no symptoms in men
• Symptoms in men: mild discharge, irritation, burning
sensation after urination or ejaculation
• Symptoms in women: green-yellow vaginal discharge with
strong odor, irritation, itching
• Treatment: metronidazole
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following term:
vaginitis
an inflammation of the vagina; symptoms include vaginal
discharge, itching and pain.
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about vaginitis:
• Cause: overgrowth of normal bacteria inside the vagina,
overproduction of fungus, lower estrogen levels postmenopause, irritation, or an allergic reaction
• Symptoms: vaginal discharge, itching, and pain
• Treatment: creams, suppositories, antibiotics, and estrogen
supplements
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following terms:
ovarian cancer
a form of female reproductive cancer that begins in the
ovaries; can occur at any age and has few symptoms.
endometrial cancer
a form of female reproductive cancer that begins in the uterus;
symptoms include vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain.
cervical cancer
a form of female reproductive cancer that begins in the cervix;
can occur at any age and has few symptoms.
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about female reproductive cancers:
• Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries. Symptoms are not
always apparent. There is no definitive screening test for
ovarian cancer. Pelvic examinations and ultrasound testing
help diagnose this type of cancer. Treatment includes surgery,
radiation, and chemotherapy.
• Endometrial cancer begins in the uterus. Symptoms include
vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain. Pelvic examinations and
ultrasounds are used to diagnose this type of cancer. If
detected early, endometrial cancer is highly curable by
removing the uterus.
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4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Female reproductive cancers (cont’d.):
• Cervical cancer begins in the cervix. Symptoms are not
always apparent, but include vaginal bleeding, change in
menstrual cycles, painful intercourse, and blood-tinged
vaginal discharge. Pap tests, scopes, and biopsies are tests
that check for cervical cancer. A vaccine for cervical cancer is
available for younger women. If detected early, cervical
cancer is curable.
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following term:
benign prostatic hypertrophy
a disorder that can occur in men as they age, in which the
prostate becomes enlarged and causes problems with urination
and/or emptying the bladder.
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about benign prostatic hypertrophy:
• Common in men over the age of 60
• Cause: enlarged prostate causes pressure on urethra, making
urination difficult.
• Symptoms: feeling of incomplete urination, frequent
urination, weak stream of urine, dribbling, need to urinate
often at night, incontinence
• Treatment: medication and surgery
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Define the following terms:
prostate cancer
a form of male reproductive cancer that begins in the prostate
gland; usually occurs in older men, and symptoms include
urinating during the night, a weak flow of urine, painful
urination, blood in urine, and problems with maintaining an
erection.
testicular cancer
a form of male reproductive cancer that begins in the testes.
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The Reproductive System
4. Discuss common disorders of the reproductive system
Know these points about male reproductive cancers:
• Prostate cancer forms in the prostate gland, normally in
older men. Symptoms of prostate cancer are urinating during
the night, a weak flow of urine, painful urination, blood in
urine, and problems with maintaining an erection. This type of
cancer tends to be slow-growing and treatable, if caught
early. Treatment includes removal of the prostate, hormone
therapy, and
chemotherapy.
• Testicular cancer occurs in the testes. Symptoms include a
noticeable lump in the testes, pain in the testicles, breast
tenderness, and an ache in the groin. Testicular cancer is
highly curable. Treatment includes surgical removal of the
testes, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
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5. Describe sexual needs of the elderly
REMEMBER:
Sexual needs continue throughout a person’s life. All people,
regardless of age, have sexual needs and desires.
You can help by providing privacy for sexual activity whenever
necessary and by respecting your residents’ sexual needs.
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The Reproductive System
5. Describe sexual needs of the elderly
Remember these points about sexual needs:
• Sexual needs continue throughout a person’s life.
• The ability to engage in sexual activities continues unless a
disease or injury occurs.
• You can help by providing privacy and respecting residents’
sexual needs.
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5. Describe sexual needs of the elderly
Define the following term:
impotence
the inability to have or maintain a penile erection.
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5. Describe sexual needs of the elderly
Here are some factors that affect sexual activity in the elderly:
• Illness affecting ability to perform sexually
• Erectile dysfunction
• Vaginal atrophy, pain and dryness
• Fear of inadequate performance
• Depression
• Lack of privacy
• Medications
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5. Describe sexual needs of the elderly
REMEMBER:
Residents are sexual beings, like all adults, and have the right to
choose how they express their sexuality. Respect for the dignity
and privacy of residents is part of your job.
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6. Describe vaginal irrigation
Define the following term:
vaginal irrigation
a rinsing of the vagina in order to clean the vaginal tract or to
introduce medication into the vagina; also called a douche.
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The Reproductive System
6. Describe vaginal irrigation
Vaginal irrigation is performed for various reasons. Sometimes
it is required before certain surgical procedures or examinations
or due to vaginal drainage. It can also be performed to introduce
medication into the vagina in order to treat disorders or to
reduce discomfort, such as itching or redness. You may be asked
to assist with vaginal irrigations.
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6. Describe vaginal irrigation
Know these points about vaginal irrigation:
• Done to clean the vaginal tract prior to surgical procedures or
exams, due to vaginal drainage, or to introduce medication
into the vagina
• Done only with doctor’s order
• May include additives such as vinegar, baking soda, or
medication
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6. Describe vaginal irrigation
Remember these guidelines when performing vaginal irrigation:
• Provide privacy.
• Place the woman in the dorsal recumbent position.
• First have fluid flow over the external vulva. Then insert the
tip into the vagina.
• Do not force the tip into the vagina.
• Report pain or discomfort, increase or decrease in vaginal
discharge, bleeding, itching or burning, or abdominal swelling.
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6. Describe vaginal irrigation
REMEMBER:
Vaginal irrigations are only performed with a doctor’s order. Not
all facilities allow nursing assistants to perform this procedure.
Facility policy must always be followed.
Giving a vaginal irrigation
Equipment: vaginal irrigation
kit, including bag, tubing and
tip, lubricating jelly, gloves, bed
protector, bath blanket, towel,
bedpan and bedpan cover
1.
Identify yourself by name.
Identify the resident. Greet
the resident by name.
2.
Wash your hands.
3.
Explain procedure to
resident. Speak clearly,
slowly, and directly.
Maintain face-to-face
contact whenever possible.
4.
Provide for the resident’s
privacy with a curtain,
screen, or door.
Giving a vaginal irrigation
5.
Adjust bed to safe working
level, usually waist high.
Lock bed wheels.
6.
Lower head of bed.
Position resident lying flat
on her back.
7.
Put on gloves.
8.
Cover the resident with a
bath blanket. Ask her to
hold it while you pull down
the top covers
underneath. Do not
expose more of her than is
necessary.
9.
Place a bed protector
under the resident’s
buttocks and hips.
Giving a vaginal irrigation
10. Hang prepared vaginal
irrigation bag on IV pole
and lower pole so that bag
is 12 inches above
resident’s perineal area.
11. Remove resident’s
underpants, exposing only
as much of the resident’s
body as necessary.
12. Place the bedpan under
the resident and make
sure she is in the dorsal
recumbent position.
13. Open the clamp and allow
a little water to run from
the tubing into the bedpan
to clear air from the
tubing.
14. Lubricate tip of tubing, if
not already lubricated.
Giving a vaginal irrigation
15. Insert nozzle slowly and
gently into vagina about
two to three inches.
16. Begin slow flow of water
or fluid by releasing
clamp. Before vaginal
irrigation bag is empty,
clamp tubing.
17. Remove tubing slowly
and gently and place
tubing tip inside top of
bag.
18. Raise the head of the
bed so that the resident
is in a semi-sitting
position on the bedpan
so that the solution can
drain.
Giving a vaginal irrigation
19. After solution has drained
into bedpan, remove
bedpan and cover it.
Remove the bed protector
and discard.
20. Bring bedpan to bathroom
and check contents for
anything unusual. Empty
bedpan unless nurse needs
to check the contents.
21. Flush toilet. Place bedpan
in area for cleaning or
clean and store it according
to policy.
22. Place soiled linens and
clothing in proper
containers.
23. Remove and discard
gloves. Wash your hands.
Giving a vaginal irrigation
24. Put clothing back on.
Remove bath blanket and
replace top covers. Make
resident comfortable.
25. Return bed to lowest
position. Remove privacy
measures.
26. Leave call light within
resident’s reach.
27. Wash your hands.
28. Be courteous and
respectful at all times.
29. Report any changes in the
resident to the nurse.
Document procedure
using facility guidelines.
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The Reproductive System
Exam
Multiple Choice. Choose the correct answer.
1. The male and female sexual reproductive glands are called:
(A) Gonads
(B) Hormones
(C) Cowper’s glands
(D) Fallopian tubes
2. Which of the following is a function of the female reproductive system?
(A) Manufacturing ova, estrogen and progesterone
(B) Manufacturing testosterone
(C) Manufacturing sperm
(D) Manufacturing insulin
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The Reproductive System
Exam (cont’d.)
3. Which of the following is a normal age-related change for the male
reproductive system?
(A) The prostate gland shrinks.
(B) Number and capability of sperm decreases.
(C) Sexual response is faster.
(D) Menopause begins.
4. Which of the following is a normal age-related change for the female
reproductive system?
(A) Lung capability increases.
(B) The response to vaccines decreases.
(C) The amount of calcium in the body increases.
(D) Vaginal walls become drier and thinner.
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Exam (cont’d.)
5. Sexually-transmitted infections are caused by sexual contact with an infected
person. Sexual contact includes:
(A) Mouth-to-mouth kissing
(B) Contact of hands with the breasts
(C) Holding hands
(D) Contact of the mouth with the genitals
6. A person with ______ cannot be treated with antibiotics or cured, and may
have repeated outbreaks of the disease for the rest of his or her life.
(A) Chlamydia
(B) Genital herpes
(C) Gonorrhea
(D) Syphilis
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Exam (cont’d.)
7. A man with benign prostatic hypertrophy may have difficulty with:
(A) Walking
(B) Reproducing
(C) Urinating
(D) Ejaculating
8. Which of the following is true of sexual needs in the elderly?
(A) As a person ages, he or she completely loses interest in sex.
(B) Impotence is a normal change of aging.
(C) Vaginal dryness cannot be treated.
(D) Lack of privacy in a facility can affect sexual activity.
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Exam (cont’d.)
9. If a nursing assistant encounters any sexual situation between two consenting
adult residents, she should:
(A) Tell the residents to stop
(B) Tell the residents how cute they are
(C) Provide privacy and leave the area
(D) Tell the residents’ friends and families what she saw
10. A woman who is receiving a vaginal irrigation will be in the ______ position.
(A) Lateral
(B) Sims’
(C) Supine
(D) Dorsal recumbent