A nurse is caring for a newborn 24 hours following birth. The infant was born at 37 weeks of gestation and there were no labor or birth complications. During the genitourinary exam, the nurse palpates the left teste within the inguinal canal, while the right teste is in the scrotum. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Neonatal genitourinary assessment requires differentiating between normal developmental variations and urgent pathologies. Knowledge of the timing of testicular descent and the prevalence of undescended testes in newborns is necessary to determine the appropriate timing for medical reporting and intervention.

Choice A rationale

Cryptorchidism, or undescended testes, is common in newborns, especially those born near or before 37 weeks. The testes often descend spontaneously within the first few months of life, so documenting and routine reporting is the appropriate initial action.

Choice B rationale

Surgery, known as an orchiopexy, is typically not considered until the infant is at least 6 months to 1 year old if the testis hasn't descended. Telling a caregiver surgery is required before discharge provides inaccurate and alarming information.

Choice C rationale

An undescended testis is a localized developmental finding and does not indicate systemic instability or respiratory distress. Therefore, a transfer to the neonatal intensive care unit is unnecessary and inappropriate for an otherwise healthy, stable newborn.

Choice D rationale

While a urology consult may eventually be necessary if the condition persists, it is not an immediate requirement 24 hours after birth. Monitoring the infant during well-child visits is the standard of care for initial management.