Managing Lymphedema Wounds
Lymphedema is a condition of tissue swelling caused by a compromised lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste, and other unwanted materials. As a result, tissues with lymphedema are at high risk of infection and wounds. However, managing lymphedema wounds can be difficult for clinicians as there are concerns about the development of infections. Wound care performed on regions of the body with lymphedema also present their own set of challenges.
This video course describes the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system in relation to risks for developing wounds and identifies how to differentiate between edema and lymphedema. Additionally, the course addresses the different types and stages of wounds commonly occurring in patients living with lymphedema. Finally, this course outlines wound management interventions for people living with lymphedema.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course the learner will be able to:
- Identify the background, anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system.
- Recognize risk factors and different types and stages of wounds commonly occurring in patients living with lymphedema.
- Select wound management interventions.
- Identify case examples of people living with lymphedema and/or wounds.
Neely Sullivan, MPT, CLT-LANA, CDP, has worked with diverse client populations ranging from pediatric to geriatric in a variety of clinical settings. These experiences and multiple courses on the topic have allowed her to treat and develop client care programs for clients living with these conditions. She has served in multiple levels of regional and corporate management positions. In these positions, Neely has developed policies and worked closely with interdisciplinary teams to ensure that clients living with lymphedema and/or wounds have opportunity to attain their highest level of function and quality of life. She is a certified lymphedema therapist and has most recently been responsible for the identification, implementation and evaluation of clinical programs in long-term care settings.