Training activity information

Details

Review the case notes and associated test results for males undergoing investigation for male genital tract pathologies. Identify additional testing required and the most appropriate treatment pathway, including males undergoing investigation for:

  • Retrograde ejaculation
  • Cryptorchidism
  • Hypospadias
  • Prostatitis

Type

Developmental training activity (DTA)

Evidence requirements

Evidence the activity has been undertaken by the trainee​.

Reflection on the activity at one or more time points after the event including learning from the activity and/or areas of the trainees practice for development.

An action plan to implement learning and/or to address skills or knowledge gaps identified.

Reflective practice guidance

The guidance below is provided to support reflection at different time points, providing you with questions to aid you to reflect for this training activity. They are provided for guidance and should not be considered as a mandatory checklist. Trainees should not be expected to provide answers to each of the guidance questions listed.

Before action

  • How do you think these pathologies (retrograde ejaculation, cryptorchidism, hypospadias, prostatitis) impact on male fertility? 
  • What specific aspects of these pathologies (retrograde ejaculation, cryptorchidism, hypospadias, prostatitis) will you need to consider when reviewing case notes and test results? 
  • What are the potential aims of additional testing for these conditions? 
  • How will this activity enhance your understanding of the diagnostic and management pathways for different male genital tract pathologies? 
  • What insights do you expect to gain regarding the role of andrology in the management of these conditions? 
  • Will you review the aetiology, presentation, and initial investigations for each of these conditions? 
  • What different types of specialist input (e.g., urology, endocrinology) might be required for these patients? 
  • Consider the potential complexities in determining the ‘most appropriate’ treatment pathway for these varied pathologies. 

In action

  • What is your approach to reviewing the case information for each of these pathologies? How are you differentiating between the investigative and management approaches for each condition? 
  • Are you able to identify the key indicators for each pathology and determine appropriate next steps? What difficulties are you encountering in this process? What are you learning about the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions? 
  • Are you adjusting your analysis based on the specific pathology being considered? Are you aware of the different treatment options and their suitability for each condition? 

On action

  • For each pathology (retrograde ejaculation, cryptorchidism, hypospadias, prostatitis), what were the specific details in the case notes and initial test results that were pertinent to the diagnosis? What additional tests did you identify as necessary for each condition? What were the key considerations in determining the most appropriate treatment pathway for each pathology? 
  • What did you learn about the specific diagnostic investigations for these different male genital tract pathologies? What did you learn about the various treatment options and management strategies for each condition? Did you consider any potential complications or long-term implications associated with these pathologies and their treatments? 
  • How will this experience enhance your understanding of the investigation and management of male genital tract pathologies? Are there any specific pathologies you need to research further to deepen your understanding? How can you improve your ability to differentiate between these conditions based on clinical information and test results? 

Beyond action

  • Reflect on whether your understanding of the diverse range of male genital tract pathologies and their management has deepened through subsequent experiences. 
  • Compare your initial considerations for additional testing and treatment with current best practice guidelines or what you have observed in clinical settings. 
  • Have discussions with the multidisciplinary team provided new insights into the management of these conditions since you completed this DTA? 
  • How has this early exposure to various genital tract pathologies influenced your ability to recognise key clinical features and suggest appropriate investigations in current practice? 
  • Have you applied the knowledge of treatment pathways gained here to inform your understanding of patient management in clinic appointments or multidisciplinary team meetings? 
  • Consider how the learning from this DTA contributes to your overall understanding of patient pathways, relevant for assessments like identifying appropriate multidisciplinary links. 
  • What areas for further learning regarding male genital tract pathologies have you identified through revisiting this DTA? 

Relevant learning outcomes

# Outcome
# 1 Outcome

Select the appropriate pathway for patients referred to the andrology service, including treatment options based upon clinical presentation.

# 2 Outcome

Practice safely in accordance with the statutory and regulatory framework.

# 4 Outcome

Apply and adapt skills to communicate effectively with patients and the multidisciplinary team.