Lymphedema and implications for oncology nursing practice.
Lymphedema (LE) is described as chronic swelling caused by impairment in lymphatic system drainage. The cause of LE is either primary or secondary (Holcomb, 2006). The experience can be disturbing. Patients and healthcare providers often overlook the initial presentation because of subtle changes. With a basic understanding of LE, oncology nurses can monitor for the presence, educate about preventive measures, and assist in treatment of LE.
Marrs
Joyce
J
James Cancer Care Center, Medical Center at Ohio State University, Dublin. joycemrn@sbcglobal.net
D000208:Acute Disease; D000792:Angiography; D001132:Arm; D015984:Causality; D002908:Chronic Disease; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg; D008209:Lymphedema / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D017592:Skin Care / Q000451:nursing; D053828:Stockings, Compression; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed