Nurse practitioners' behavior regarding teaching testicular self-examination

PURPOSE: To test a model derived from the theory of reasoned action and to determine the behavior of nurse practitioners (NPs) regarding teaching testicular self-examination (TSE). DATA SOURCES: A cross-sectional, explanatory design was used to survey a random sample of 1,490 members of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. CONCLUSIONS: NPs had positive attitudes toward teaching TSE and were engaged in such teaching. They perceived that other NPs, physicians, and patients also value TSE teaching. The theoretical model was supported. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The results have implications for research, practice, and education. The theory was shown to be useful as a framework for the study of NP behavior. The results highlight the importance of including strategies to promote positive values as components of nurse preparation. For practice, patient adherence to illness detection activities may be fostered by positive attitude, perception that significant others also value these activities, and belief that failure to do so may result in personal loss.