Educational Program on Self-Management for Women With Post-Mastectomy Lymphedema

Improvement in screening and treatment modalities of breast cancer has translated into higher survival rates in these patients. Unfortunately, this gain in survival leading to high prevalence of serious consequences of cancer treatments. Among these, post mastectomy lymphedema. It was estimated that 10 million women had breast cancer- related lymphedema (BCRL) worldwide, with 3-5 million affected in the United States. Approximately one in five women undergoing breast cancer surgery at risk for developing lymphedema . Post-mastectomy lymphedema is a chronic and progressive tissue swelling caused by the abnormal buildup of protein-rich fluids in the interstitial space due to disrupted lymphatic drainage. This swelling results in physical symptoms such as heaviness, pain, decreased flexibility or tightness, stiffness, fatigue and numbness in the affected extremity. Its long-term burden extends beyond these physical symptoms, to significantly impact social, psychological, emotional functioning .also pose financial burdens to patients, the healthcare system, and society which lead to poor quality of life . Lymphedema self-management constitutes the standard lymphedema treatment that should be maintained throughout life. In this context, the nurse's role becomes magnified. Self-management is the ability of individual to manage one's own chronic condition, encompassing the management of symptoms , physical and psychosocial impacts, treatment, and incorporating these management practices into daily activities to attain optimal quality of life. Nurses contribute significantly in management of post mastectomy lymphedema through educating the patients about lymphedema self-care behaviors which are important to control lymphedema symptoms, decrease lymphedema stages and prevent further progression of the disease. Lymphedema self-care involves maintaining risk-reduction behaviors, exercising, weight control, good nutrition, healthy lifestyle behaviors, caring and proper fit of compression garments, self-lymph drainage, skin care, signs and symptoms, preventing and managing infections.