Poage E, Singer M, Armer J, Poundall M, Shellabarger MJ, et al.
Clinical journal of oncology nursing. Date of publication 2008 Dec 1;volume 12(6):951-64.
1. Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2008 Dec;12(6):951-64. doi: 10.1188/08.CJON.951-964.
Demystifying lymphedema: development of the lymphedema putting evidence into
practice card.
Poage E(1), Singer M, Armer J, Poundall M, Shellabarger MJ.
Author information:
(1)Rehabilitation Associates of Naples, Fort Myers, FL, USA. egpoage@mac.com
Update in
Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2014;18 Suppl:68-79.
Cancer treatment is the leading cause of lymphedema in developed countries.
Development and severity of lymphedema have a significant impact on comfort,
psychological distress, and overall quality of life. Incidence statistics have
ranged from 5%-60%, with onset of symptoms ranging from immediately after
treatment to 30 years after treatment. Oncology nurses caring for patients
throughout the cancer trajectory have a critical role to play in early assessment
of risk, prompt identification of lymphedema, and implementation of
evidence-based, individualized treatment plans in collaboration with therapists.
As part of an Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) project team, the authors of this
article undertook a review of current literature to identify effective
interventions for the treatment of secondary lymphedema. Following the guidelines
established by the ONS Evidence-Based Practice Resource Team, the authors
evaluated current clinical practice guidelines, systematic reviews, and research
studies conducted since 1998. The team reviewed and synthesized the literature
and developed evidence tables and a Putting Evidence Into Practice(R) (PEP) card.
The data were reviewed by experts in the field of lymphedema management. The
lymphedema ONS PEP card, a user-friendly, succinct summary of interventions, was
released at the 33rd Annual ONS Congress in May 2008.
DOI: 10.1188/08.CJON.951-964
PMID: 19064389 [Indexed for MEDLINE]
