Reference no: EM133676597

Mrs. Lowe is a 47 year old woman with a diagnosis of right post mastectomy lymphedema. She underwent mastectomy for the right breast 15 months ago and had 20 lymph nodes removed on the right side. She had chemotherapy and radiation and now shows no evidence of disease. She recently saw her oncologist with complaints of right upper extremity swelling and aching heaviness in the arm and across her chest and back. She reported pain in her right arm and difficulty putting blouses and shirts on as well as embarrassment in the fit of her clothing on the right. She is referred to occupational therapy for treatment of lymphedema and instruction in ADL and home exercises.

• What additional information would be helpful in planning OT intervention for Mrs. Lowe?
• What treatment would best assist Mrs. Lowe in her management of her complaints (chief complaint is dressing and fit of her clothing) regarding the difficulties she is experiencing with lymphedema?
• What education or training could be given to help manage problems with lymphedema?
• 2 goals that Mrs. Lowe could accomplish within 3 months of therapy