Assertion (A): In a patient with scrotal swelling, examination of the superficial inguinal lymph nodes should always be performed. Reason (R): Most lymphatic drainage from scrotal skin goes to the superficial inguinal lymph nodes. Choose the correct option:

1. A

   A. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A

2. B

   B. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

3. C

   C. A is true, but R is false

4. D

   D. A is false, but R is true

Appeared in: INI-CET EXAM -2026

Explanation

• The assertion is correct; examining the inguinal lymph nodes is a standard part of assessing scrotal swelling to check for infection or metastasis.
• The reason is also correct; the skin of the scrotum drains lymph primarily to the superficial inguinal nodes.
• The reason provides the direct anatomical and physiological justification for the clinical action described in the assertion.
• Therefore, both statements are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option A: This option incorrectly states that the reason is not the correct explanation. The anatomical drainage pathway is precisely why the clinical examination is performed.
• Option C: This option incorrectly claims that the reason (R) is false. The lymphatic drainage of the scrotal skin to the superficial inguinal nodes is a well-established anatomical fact.
• Option D: This option incorrectly claims that the assertion (A) is false. Failing to examine the inguinal lymph nodes during an assessment of scrotal swelling would be an incomplete and potentially negligent examination.

Related Visual

Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: Knowing This question tests the knowledge of the lymphatic drainage of the male external genitalia and its clinical application in physical examination helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
• A nurse assisting with or performing a physical assessment must understand the significance of examining regional lymph nodes. For scrotal swelling, enlarged inguinal nodes could be the first sign of a serious condition like a scrotal skin infection (cellulitis) or cancer.
• It is crucial to differentiate the cause of swelling. Testicular cancer metastasizes to para-aortic nodes (not usually palpable), while infections or cancers of the scrotal skin will affect the palpable inguinal nodes.
• What if? If the patient had a painless, hard lump within the testis itself but no scrotal skin changes, the primary concern would be testicular cancer. While the inguinal nodes should still be checked, the absence of inguinal lymphadenopathy would not rule out metastatic disease, as the primary drainage is to the abdomen (para-aortic nodes).

How to Approach the Question

• First, evaluate the Assertion (A) for its factual correctness. Is it standard clinical practice to examine the inguinal lymph nodes for scrotal swelling? Yes, it is.
• Next, evaluate the Reason (R) for its factual correctness. Is it true that scrotal skin drains to the superficial inguinal lymph nodes? Yes, this is a known anatomical fact.
• Then, determine the relationship between A and R. Does the fact stated in R (the drainage pathway) explain the action in A (the examination)? Yes, the drainage pathway is the reason for the examination.
• Finally, select the option that matches your conclusion. Since both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation for A, the correct choice is B.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: This question tests the knowledge of the lymphatic drainage of the male external genitalia and its clinical application in physical examination.
• Stem keywords: scrotal swelling, superficial inguinal lymph nodes, lymphatic drainage, scrotal skin
• Lead-in keywords: Assertion (A), Reason (R), correct explanation
• Clinical cues: The presence of scrotal swelling necessitates a thorough regional examination, including lymph nodes.

Question ID

Q6nk1vr7JN9oaxNwzQirc-

Copy ID

Reference Book

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 3 p. 115-117

E6 Medicine Macleod Clinical Examination 15e p. 271-273