Evaluation of a pilot nurse-led, community-based treatment programme for lymphoedema.
OBJECTIVE
to evaluate the effect of this treatment programme on lymphoedema specific fluid volume, pain, discomfort, limb function and quality of life outcomes.


METHODS
prospective, descriptive study.


METHODS
a convenience sample of four women with breast cancer related lymphoedema referred to a community-based specialist oncology nurse consultant programme in Canada that involved manual lymph drainage combined with compression bandaging.


METHODS
circumferential arm measurements to assess fluid volume, visual analogue scales to assess the impact of lymphoedema on specific practical, physical and psychosocial problems known to be affected by lymphoedema and field notes.


RESULTS
although a reduction in arm volume was observed, quality of life outcomes worsened for most of the women as they realized that this symptom would require lifelong management, serving as a reminder of their breast cancer experience.


CONCLUSIONS
lymphoedema treatment programmes must ensure that the multidimensional impact of this symptom on women's lives is recognized and addressed as part of the treatment process.
Howell
Doris
D
University Health Network (Princess Margaret Hospital Site), 610 University Avenue, Room 15-617, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2M9, Canada. doris.howell@uhn.on.ca
Watson
Marcia
M
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D004322:Drainage; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008209:Lymphedema / Q000451:nursing*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009779:Occlusive Dressings; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011446:Prospective Studies